A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. The tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand, leading to panic and significant damage. According to initial reports, at least 20 people have died, and dozens are injured as rescue operations continue.
Earthquake Strikes Myanmar
The epicenter of the earthquake was located near the city of Sagaing, close to Mandalay, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. The strong tremors caused buildings to collapse, infrastructure damage, and widespread power outages. In Mandalay, a mosque crumbled during prayers, leading to multiple casualties, while a university building caught fire. The Myanmar military junta declared a state of emergency and called for international aid to support rescue and relief operations.
Impact in Thailand
The tremors were felt in Bangkok, where a 30-story building under construction collapsed, trapping around 81 workers under the debris. At least three people have been confirmed dead, and several others sustained severe injuries. Authorities have deployed emergency teams to the site, and rescue operations are underway. Bangkok’s metro and rail services were temporarily halted due to safety concerns, and the Thai government has declared a state of emergency in affected areas.
Regional Tremors and Effects
The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar and Thailand. Strong tremors were reported in China’s Yunnan province, where authorities measured the quake at 7.9 magnitude. Cities in India, including Kolkata and Manipur, also felt minor tremors, while Bangladesh experienced mild shaking in Dhaka and Chattogram.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
Rescue teams in Myanmar and Thailand are working tirelessly to locate survivors and provide medical assistance. Hospitals in Naypyidaw and Mandalay are overwhelmed with injured victims. In Bangkok, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an emergency meeting to coordinate relief efforts and assess the damage.
International Reactions
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern and offered humanitarian assistance, stating that India is ready to provide support for rescue and relief efforts. Neighboring countries, including China and Bangladesh, have also pledged to assist Myanmar and Thailand in their recovery.
As the situation unfolds, authorities continue to assess the full extent of the destruction. The earthquake serves as a grim reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity, urging governments to strengthen disaster preparedness and emergency response mechanisms.
