A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, triggering chaos across Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand and parts of China. The earthquake, which originated about 17.2 kilometers from Mandalay, Myanmar, at a depth of 10 kilometers, was felt as far away as Bangkok, where panic ensued as residents evacuated buildings.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake's epicenter was located near Mandalay, a city with a population of approximately 1.2 million. Reports indicate that several buildings collapsed in Mandalay, causing significant damage. However, the military junta governing Myanmar, embroiled in a civil war since a coup four years ago, has not yet confirmed any injuries or fatalities.
In Bangkok, the situation was dire following the earthquake. A 30-story skyscraper under construction collapsed, trapping at least 43 workers inside. The Thai Defense Minister confirmed that at least three people have died, with 50 others injured and 70 missing. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as the building crumbled into a mass of debris within seconds of the tremors. One witness recounted, "We ran out of the building when everything started shaking. I saw a five-story building collapse right before my eyes. Everyone in my city is on the street, and no one dares to go back inside."
As the earthquake struck around noon local time, thousands of residents in Bangkok rushed into the streets, many still in their bathrobes and swimsuits. The tremors caused water from swimming pools to spill over, and the city’s tall buildings swayed dramatically. Reports from the scene indicate that emergency services have set up temporary hospitals to treat the injured, while rescue teams continue to search for those trapped under the rubble.
In Myanmar, social media posts from Mandalay show collapsed structures and debris scattered throughout the city. Witnesses have reported that a mosque in Taungoo collapsed, killing at least three people during Friday prayers, and a monastery in the same town reportedly trapped around 20 children. The Burmese military junta has declared a state of emergency in several regions affected by the quake, including Naypyidaw, Sagaing, and Mandalay.
Marie Manrique, coordinator of the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC), expressed concern over the situation, stating, "Not only are buildings showing cracks and fissures, but public structures, including roads and bridges, have collapsed. We are particularly worried about a dam that may have been damaged." The junta has pledged to provide assistance to those affected, but the humanitarian needs are vast, with around 20 million people in Myanmar requiring aid.
The earthquake's impact reached neighboring countries, with strong tremors also felt in the southern Chinese provinces of Yunnan and Guangxi. Reports from Kunming, the capital of Yunnan, indicate that residents evacuated buildings but, as of now, no serious injuries or damages have been reported. However, local authorities in China have warned of potential aftershocks.
In light of the disaster, the European Union expressed deep concern over the destruction caused by the earthquake and is prepared to offer emergency support. The EU has activated its Copernicus satellite system to assess the damage, with officials monitoring the situation closely.
As the day unfolded, the Thai Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, declared a state of emergency in Bangkok, urging residents to stay outdoors due to the risk of aftershocks. The tremors were so strong that they disrupted public transport, with all metro and light rail services temporarily suspended. The Thai Meteorological Department has also issued warnings about potential aftershocks.
The earthquake has reignited discussions about the geological risks in the region, particularly the Burma fault, which is known for its seismic activity. This fault line has been responsible for significant earthquakes in the past, including the devastating tsunami of 2004.
As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on locating missing individuals and providing aid to those in need. The situation is still unfolding, and updates are expected as authorities gather more information about the extent of the damage and the number of casualties. Eyewitness accounts and social media posts are crucial in piecing together the immediate aftermath of this catastrophic event.
In conclusion, the magnitude 7.7 earthquake has caused widespread panic and destruction, particularly in Myanmar and Thailand, with ongoing rescue operations and humanitarian efforts to support affected populations. The full impact of this disaster is yet to be determined as officials assess the damage and respond to urgent needs.
