At least 150 people have been killed and hundreds injured after a series of powerful earthquakes struck central Myanmar on Friday, with the strongest measuring 7.7 magnitude, state-run broadcaster MRTV reported. The seismic activity was recorded near Sagaing at 12:50 p.m. local time, causing widespread destruction and panic.
Authorities fear the toll will rise as rescue efforts continue. A hospital in Naypyidaw, Myanmar’s capital, has been overwhelmed with casualties and is likely to become a “mass casualty area,” according to medical personnel speaking to AFP. In Mandalay, a mosque collapsed during Friday prayers, trapping worshippers under debris, while a fire broke out in a university building.
Myanmar’s junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, has declared a state of emergency and appealed for international aid, stating, “We call on any country and any organization to provide assistance.”
Regional Impact and Rescue Operations
Tremors were felt across the region, prompting emergency responses in neighbouring countries. In Thailand, strong shocks led to temporary metro and rail service suspensions in Bangkok. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra cut short an official visit to Phuket to oversee crisis management efforts, subsequently declaring an emergency in the capital.
At least eight people have been confirmed dead in Thailand. In Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, a 30-floor, under-construction skyscraper collapsed, trapping 84 workers under rubble. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed that at least three people had died at the site, and emergency responders fear the toll could rise.
“When I arrived to inspect the site, I heard people calling for help, saying ‘Help me,’” deputy police chief Worapat Sukthai told AFP. “We estimate hundreds are injured, but we are still determining the exact number of casualties.”
Shockwaves Reach India, China, and Bangladesh
China’s Yunnan province also experienced strong tremors, with the China Earthquake Networks Center recording a magnitude of 7.9. No casualties have been reported from China so far.
In India, tremors were felt in Kolkata, West Bengal, and parts of Manipur, where a 4.4-magnitude quake was recorded. Bangladesh also reported mild tremors in Dhaka and Chattogram.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern and pledged India’s assistance. “Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone,” he posted on X. “I have asked our authorities to be on standby.” Leaders of several European nations have also extended their support.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Emergency response teams have been deployed across affected areas, with Myanmar, Thailand, and China mobilizing military and civilian resources to aid search and rescue missions. Myanmar’s hospitals are struggling to accommodate the injured, and aid agencies have begun coordinating relief efforts.
As aftershocks continue to rattle the region, authorities remain on high alert. The full scale of the devastation is still unfolding, with concerns that further tremors could exacerbate the crisis.
