A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake has struck central Myanmar, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter of this seismic event was located approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) northwest of the city of Sagaing, at a depth of 10 kilometers. The tremors were so strong that they were felt across borders, reaching as far as south-west China and Thailand.
In Bangkok, hundreds of miles away, at least 70 construction workers are reported missing following the collapse of an unfinished high-rise building. A rescuer in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, reported to the BBC that the damage is extensive, with casualty numbers expected to be in the hundreds. The situation is dire, highlighting the tragic consequences of this earthquake.
In response to the devastation, Myanmar's military government has declared a state of emergency across six regions. Reports from the capital, Naypyidaw, indicate that roads have buckled, further complicating rescue efforts. The earthquake struck near Mandalay, a city with a population of approximately 1.5 million residents, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of the local population.
Just 12 minutes after the initial quake, a second tremor of magnitude 6.4 followed, with its epicenter located 18 kilometers (11.1 miles) south of Sagaing. Soe Lwin, a resident of Yangon, Myanmar's largest city, expressed his concern, stating he felt the first earthquake for a prolonged period and that residents are apprehensive about potential aftershocks.
Bui Thu, a BBC journalist residing in Bangkok, shared her experience during the initial quake. She was at home cooking when the earthquake struck and described feeling very nervous and panicked. “Buildings in Bangkok are not engineered for earthquakes, so I fear there will be significant damage,” she noted.
Myanmar has been embroiled in political turmoil since a military junta seized power in a coup in 2021. The government controls nearly all local media—radio, television, print, and online—which complicates access to information, especially during crises like this earthquake. Internet use is heavily restricted, making it increasingly difficult for citizens to receive timely updates and support.
The 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar marks a significant natural disaster, exacerbating the ongoing challenges faced by the country. As rescue operations continue and the full extent of the damage becomes clearer, the international community watches closely, hoping for swift recovery efforts and support for those affected.
