On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake struck near Meiktila, Myanmar, sending shockwaves that reached as far as Bangkok, Thailand. The earthquake, which occurred at approximately 12:50 PM local time, was felt by many in the bustling city, causing widespread panic and concern among residents and workers alike.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake's epicenter was located near Mandalay, Myanmar. The tremors were strong enough to rattle high-rise buildings in Bangkok, particularly in the KTH area, where many construction workers were on site. TikTok user @boommmm98 captured a dramatic moment during the quake, posting a video that showed workers fleeing from the upper floors of a tall building as the structure swayed dangerously. In the video, the user remarked, "It was a life-or-death moment. Everyone was running for their lives. Luckily, we hadn’t gone up to the roof yet."
As the quake struck, chaos ensued in the streets of Bangkok. Ms. Sao Hengiyan, a Vietnamese resident living and working in the city, shared her anxiety about the situation, stating, "The earthquake was very strong. Many people felt the tremors and were worried about their safety." She described how people rushed out of buildings, often without taking their identification or money, as they sought safety on the streets.
The response from local authorities was swift. The Thai Prime Minister ordered the Ministry of Interior to declare a state of emergency in Bangkok, urging citizens to remain vigilant for aftershocks that could continue for the next 24 hours. In the wake of the earthquake, many residents flocked to supermarkets to stock up on food and supplies, fearing further disruptions.
Amidst the panic, the Vietnamese Embassy in Thailand issued a statement advising Vietnamese nationals to prioritize their safety during this tumultuous time. The embassy highlighted the need for caution, especially given the heightened state of alert following the earthquake.
In the KTH area, numerous high-rise buildings swayed, with reports indicating that some structures were damaged. Eyewitness accounts noted that a 30-story building experienced significant shaking, raising concerns about the integrity of the construction. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of serious injuries or fatalities, but the fear and uncertainty lingered as residents awaited news about potential aftershocks.
Social media buzzed with reactions following the earthquake. Many users praised the quick thinking of construction workers who, as noted in the TikTok video, took measures to secure equipment before evacuating. Comments flooded in, with one user stating, "This is a great reminder that construction sites need to have earthquake safety protocols in place to protect workers."
As the day progressed, the streets of Bangkok remained congested with traffic, as people continued to evacuate buildings and seek safety. Ms. Chi recounted the scene, saying, "There were police deployed everywhere to assist the public, and traffic was heavy on all roads. It was a chaotic situation." The sense of community was palpable, with many individuals helping each other as they navigated the aftermath of the quake.
Authorities continued to assess the damage and monitor for aftershocks, which are common following significant seismic events. The USGS reported that aftershocks were indeed felt in some areas, further heightening the anxiety among residents who had already experienced the initial quake.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, experts began discussing the importance of earthquake preparedness in urban environments, particularly in regions prone to seismic activity. The incident served as a stark reminder of the need for robust building codes and safety measures to protect both workers and residents in high-rise buildings.
As the situation in Bangkok stabilized, many reflected on the day’s events, grateful for the safety of their loved ones while remaining alert for any further developments. The earthquake not only shook the ground but also the very fabric of daily life in the city, prompting discussions about safety and emergency preparedness that would likely continue in the days and weeks to come.
In conclusion, the March 28 earthquake was a significant event that impacted many lives in Bangkok. As residents and officials continue to navigate the aftermath, the focus remains on ensuring safety and preparedness for any future seismic events.
