A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, shaking several Southeast Asian countries and causing widespread devastation. The tremor, which had its epicenter near Mandalay, occurred just 10 kilometers beneath the surface, making it particularly destructive.
Myanmar’s military authorities reported that over 1,000 people have died, and nearly 2,000 others are injured. However, experts believe the real toll could be much higher. The U.S. Geological Survey warned that fatalities may exceed 10,000 across the region due to collapsed buildings, landslides, and widespread infrastructure damage.
Widespread Damage and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
The earthquake was felt across Myanmar, Thailand, Bangladesh, India, and China. In Thailand, at least ten people lost their lives, with most fatalities occurring in Bangkok.
In Myanmar, survivors are desperately searching for loved ones, often using their bare hands to dig through debris. Many are trapped under collapsed homes and buildings. Volunteers in Mandalay report hearing cries from beneath the rubble, but with limited government assistance, rescue efforts are slow.
Emergency workers in Bangkok are racing against time to save 30 construction workers trapped inside a collapsed high-rise. Drones, heavy machinery, and sniffer dogs are being used to locate survivors. Authorities say at least 15 people show signs of life, and efforts will continue non-stop for the next 48 hours.
Hospitals in affected regions are overwhelmed, with doctors treating patients in makeshift triage centers. Many medical facilities have suffered structural damage, making it difficult to provide urgent care.
International Aid Mobilized Swiftly
Several countries have stepped in to help Myanmar and other affected areas. China has sent a 37-member rescue team and pledged emergency supplies worth €13 million. Russia has dispatched 120 personnel, including doctors and search-and-rescue experts with sniffer dogs.
The United States, India, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and Taiwan have all committed to providing humanitarian aid.
ASEAN nations have also pledged support, promising coordinated recovery efforts. Engineers in Bangkok have begun inspecting over 200 buildings for structural damage, leading to the evacuation of two residential towers. Parks and community centers are being used as temporary shelters for displaced families.
Earthquake Struck Along the Sagaing Fault Line
Scientists say the earthquake occurred along the Sagaing Fault, a highly active tectonic boundary where the Indian and Eurasian plates collide. According to geophysicist Fabrice Cotton, these plates move at a rate of approximately 18 millimeters per year, creating extreme pressure that periodically releases in the form of major quakes.
Cotton warned that additional aftershocks are likely in the coming days, raising concerns about further collapses and damage. Residents have been advised to stay in open areas away from tall structures until the aftershock risk subsides.
Uncertain Future as Recovery Begins
With thousands of homes and businesses destroyed, the road to recovery will be long and difficult. Many families have lost everything, and basic necessities like food, water, and electricity remain scarce in affected regions.
Governments and relief organizations are working to distribute aid as quickly as possible, but logistical challenges remain. Roads and bridges have been damaged, making transportation difficult.
Despite the tragedy, there have been moments of hope. Several survivors have been pulled from the rubble, thanks to the tireless efforts of rescue teams and volunteers. Communities are coming together to support one another, showing remarkable resilience in the face of disaster.
As rescue efforts continue, the world watches, hoping for more survivors and a swift recovery.