Two powerful earthquakes rocked central Myanmar on Friday, killing at least 107 people and injuring more than 350 across Myanmar and neighboring Thailand. The tremors were felt hundreds of kilometers away, collapsing buildings, destroying bridges, and prompting urgent rescue operations in affected regions.
Quakes Hit With Devastating Force
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the first earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.7, followed by a second quake measuring 6.4. The epicenter was located about 50 kilometers east of Monywa in central Myanmar, near the Sagaing Fault—a seismically active zone close to the Indo-Burma subduction boundary.
The tremors were felt as far away as Bangkok, where a high-rise construction site collapsed, killing at least three workers and leaving dozens trapped under rubble. Thai Deputy Prime Minister reported that around 81 workers remain missing.
Widespread Destruction in Myanmar
In Myanmar, the historic city of Mandalay suffered severe damage. The iconic Ava Bridge collapsed, and parts of a mosque crumbled, killing at least three worshippers. A local hospital declared a mass casualty emergency as injured survivors flooded in.
Myanmar’s military government, which tightly controls information, has issued an unusual appeal for international aid. Rescue workers told BBC Burmese that the final death toll could be in the “hundreds,” though official figures remain unclear. The Red Cross confirmed “significant damage” across the country.
Thailand Also Affected
In Thailand, the tremors caused panic, with high-rise buildings swaying in Bangkok. Security footage showed waves from a rooftop swimming pool spilling over due to the shaking. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damage.
Why Was the Quake So Destructive?
Seismologists say the earthquake’s shallow depth and proximity to the Sagaing Fault contributed to its widespread impact. Weak soil conditions in some areas amplified the shaking, causing destruction even in distant cities like Bangkok.
Emergency Measures and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Myanmar’s junta has declared a state of emergency in six regions. Images show roads split open, buildings reduced to rubble, and bridges destroyed. International aid organizations are mobilizing relief efforts, but access remains challenging due to Myanmar’s political situation.
As rescue teams continue searching for survivors, fears remain that the death toll could rise. This disaster adds to Myanmar’s ongoing crises, including political unrest and economic instability.
Updates to follow as more information becomes available.
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