A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, causing massive destruction and leading to over 1,000 deaths. The quake was followed by multiple aftershocks, damaging roads, collapsing buildings, and sending tremors across China, Thailand, Vietnam, and even parts of India.
While India did not report any damage or injuries, the quake caused at least six deaths in Thailand, where a skyscraper collapsed in Bangkok’s Chatuchak market. Thai authorities initially reported 10 deaths but later revised the number to six.
Myanmar’s junta chief confirmed on Saturday that the death toll had surged from 144 to 1,000, with hundreds more injured. Officials fear the number may rise further as rescue teams continue searching for survivors.
Emergency relief efforts are underway, and international aid is expected to arrive soon to support the affected regions.
Myanmar Earthquake | Key Updates
- A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, at a depth of 10 km, around 12:50 PM local time (0620 GMT), according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). It was followed by a strong 6.4-magnitude aftershock and multiple smaller tremors.
- The earthquake caused strong tremors in northern Thailand, even shaking Bangkok, where buildings swayed and people rushed to the streets. A building collapse in Chatuchak led to six deaths, and some public transport services were temporarily halted.
- Vietnam and China also felt the quake. China’s Yunnan province reported tremors, with Beijing’s quake agency measuring it at 7.9 magnitude.
- Myanmar has a history of major earthquakes, especially between 1930 and 1956, due to the Sagaing Fault that runs through the country.
- In India, mild tremors were felt in Kolkata (West Bengal) and Imphal (Manipur). However, no major damage or casualties have been reported.
Rescue operations are ongoing, and authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
ALSO READ – Nepal Hit by 6.1 Magnitude Earthquake, Tremors Experienced in Siliguri and Patna
