A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar near Mandalay on Friday, killing at least 144 people and injuring over 730, according to state media. The quake also triggered a 6.4-magnitude aftershock, with tremors felt across Thailand, China, and Bangladesh.
In Bangkok, Thailand, at least eight people died (including seven at a collapsed high-rise construction site), with 90 workers still missing under rubble. Rescue teams are using drones and sniffer dogs to locate survivors.
Key Developments:
✔ Myanmar’s Death Toll Rising – Military government confirms 144 dead, 732 injured, but numbers may increase due to poor infrastructure and ongoing civil war.
✔ Bangkok Declares Emergency – Thai PM announces disaster zone as buildings collapse; evacuations ongoing.
✔ Aftershocks & Dam Concerns – Red Cross warns of potential dam failures; WHO mobilizes emergency medical aid.
✔ Global Aid Offers – EU, France, UK, and Pope Francis pledge support amid rescue chaos.
Destruction in Myanmar: Hospitals Overwhelmed, Communications Cut
The earthquake’s epicenter was near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. Witnesses reported:
- Collapsed homes, bridges, and roads with massive cracks.
- Military junta declares state of emergency in six regions, requests rare international aid.
- Internet blackouts in conflict zones hinder rescue efforts.
Zin Mar Aung, a leader of Myanmar’s opposition government, pleaded:
“We need urgent humanitarian and technical help. The junta’s restrictions are blocking aid.”
Thailand Disaster: High-Rise Collapse Traps Dozens
In Bangkok, a partially built high-rise collapsed, killing seven workers. Authorities fear 90 more are buried.
- Drones and rescue dogs deployed to find survivors.
- Bangkok governor orders city-wide damage inspections.
- France evacuates embassy as aftershocks continue.
International Response: WHO, EU, and Pope Mobilize Aid
- WHO sends emergency medical supplies from Dubai.
- EU chief Ursula von der Leyen: “We stand ready to help.”
- Pope Francis offers prayers for victims.
What’s Next?
- Death toll expected to rise as remote areas report damage.
- Aftershock warnings issued for Myanmar, Thailand, and China.
- Humanitarian access critical amid Myanmar’s civil war.
Also read: BREAKING: 5.8 magnitude earthquake jolts felt in parts of country
