Naypyidaw [Myanmar]: A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, killing at least 1,700 people and causing widespread destruction. Rescue efforts are ongoing as thousands remain injured, missing, or trapped under rubble. The tremors were felt as far as Bangkok and parts of China, highlighting the quake’s immense impact, CNN reported.
According to Myanmar’s military government, around 3,400 people have been injured, while nearly 300 others remain missing. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimates that the final death toll could exceed 10,000, based on early modeling.
Epicenter and Devastation
The earthquake’s epicenter was in Myanmar’s central Sagaing region, near Mandalay, an area home to over 1.5 million people. The quake left a trail of destruction, flattening buildings, bridges, and historic temples.
In Bangkok, the tremors caused the collapse of a high-rise building under construction, killing 18 people and leaving dozens trapped. The disaster also claimed seven more lives across the Thai capital, with at least 80 people still missing as search operations continue.
Aftershocks and Rescue Challenges
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake was the most powerful to hit Myanmar in over a century. It was followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock, which further rattled the already devastated region. Rescue teams are struggling to reach affected areas, particularly after the collapse of a key bridge over the Irrawaddy River, leaving several communities cut off.
International aid is starting to arrive after Myanmar’s military junta issued a rare plea for assistance. Humanitarian groups are rushing to provide medical aid, food, and shelter to those affected.
A Nation in Crisis
Myanmar is already facing severe challenges due to the ongoing civil war since 2021, which has weakened infrastructure, disrupted communication networks, and left millions struggling for basic necessities. The earthquake has further compounded the humanitarian crisis.
The level of devastation “hasn’t been seen in over a century in Asia,” according to an official from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
Marie Manrique, Myanmar program coordinator for the IFRC, told CNN’s Lynda Kinkade:
“The impact of the earthquake will be felt for the next few weeks. The numbers of deaths and injuries are likely to rise as many people remain trapped under collapsed buildings.”
With time running out, rescue teams continue to work tirelessly, but the true scale of the disaster may take weeks to fully unfold.