A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday at around 12:50 p.m. The tremors reached neighboring Thailand, causing widespread panic and destruction. Buildings collapsed, roads cracked, and bridges fell apart. Authorities confirmed at least 20 deaths in Myanmar, while three more people lost their lives in Thailand. The earthquake left both countries struggling to manage the devastation.
USGS Confirms Epicenter Near Mandalay
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) identified the earthquake’s epicenter about 16 kilometers from Mandalay. This city, home to 1.2 million people, suffered heavy damage. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 9.97 kilometers, making the impact more severe. Just 12 minutes later, a 6.4-magnitude aftershock hit 18 kilometers south of Sagaing. The aftershock caused further destruction, leaving thousands in shock and fear.
Buildings and Bridges Destroyed
The tremors severely affected Mandalay’s historic sites, including its former royal palace. Many ancient buildings suffered cracks and partial collapses. One of the most devastating impacts was the destruction of a key bridge linking the Ava and Sagaing regions. Footage showed massive sections of the bridge falling into the Irrawaddy River. Roads throughout Mandalay buckled, making transportation nearly impossible. Emergency crews worked to clear debris and rescue trapped individuals.
Hospitals Overwhelmed by Injured Victims
In Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, the quake damaged a hospital’s emergency department. A part of the entrance collapsed onto a car, trapping its occupants. Doctors and nurses had no choice but to treat patients outside. Medics hung IV bags from gurneys and trees, struggling to provide care under difficult conditions. Many patients lay on stretchers, some groaning in pain while others remained motionless. Families gathered, desperate for updates on their loved ones.
Sagaing Fault Responsible for Myanmar’s Frequent Quakes
Scientists linked the disaster to the Sagaing Fault, Myanmar’s most active seismic zone. This fault stretches 1,200 kilometers through the country and frequently produces strong earthquakes. Experts explain that the fault builds stress over time and then releases it in powerful tremors. The recent earthquake fits this pattern, and seismologists warn that more tremors could follow. The fault’s high slip rate suggests that additional seismic activity remains possible in the near future.
Thailand Experiences Tremors Despite Distance
Even though Thailand lies outside the Sagaing Fault, it still felt the impact. Tremors shook buildings in Bangkok, leading to the collapse of a high-rise structure. Three people lost their lives in the incident, while dozens suffered injuries. Experts pointed out that Thailand rarely experiences strong earthquakes directly. However, Myanmar’s frequent seismic activity often causes tremors in the region. Authorities in Thailand are now monitoring for potential aftershocks and structural weaknesses in affected buildings.
Myanmar’s Long History of Earthquakes
Myanmar has faced over 14 earthquakes above magnitude 6 in the past century. Friday’s disaster adds to the country’s history of major seismic events. The nation remains vulnerable due to its position on multiple fault lines. Experts stress the need for better infrastructure and early warning systems to reduce damage and casualties in future quakes. Meanwhile, rescue workers continue efforts to locate survivors and provide aid to affected communities.
The earthquake has once again highlighted the risks faced by Myanmar and its neighbors. As aftershocks continue, officials urge residents to stay alert. Emergency teams remain on the ground, working tirelessly to help those in need.