More than 1,000 people have died in a devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025. The earthquake, measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale, has left a trail of destruction, with military leaders reporting that the death toll has risen to 1,002, alongside 2,376 injured and 30 missing. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has estimated that this earthquake could potentially cause more than 10,000 deaths, a grim prediction that underscores the severity of the disaster.
Rescue operations continue to face significant challenges as power and communications have been cut off in Myanmar's two largest cities, Mandalay and Yangon. Reports indicate that many buildings in Mandalay have collapsed, exacerbating the situation for rescue workers who are tirelessly searching for survivors amidst the rubble. A rescue worker in Mandalay described the scene as harrowing, stating that "most of the buildings have collapsed" in the city. The General Mandalay Hospital is nearing capacity, overwhelmed with patients suffering from various ailments, including heart attacks, and it too has sustained damage from the quake.
As the night fell, fear gripped the population. One resident reported, "We cannot go back to our homes. People are terrified. Some are sitting on the streets... unable to sleep." The emotional toll of the disaster is palpable, with many families experiencing the anguish of missing loved ones.
The earthquake's impact extends beyond Myanmar's borders. In Thailand, a high-rise construction site in Bangkok collapsed, leaving at least six dead and approximately 100 people missing. The site was bustling with over 400 workers at the time of the disaster, but only around 300 have been accounted for. Rescue teams are working against the clock to locate survivors, employing search dogs and drones to assist in the efforts.
In Bangkok, the collapse of the building has prompted evacuations in nearby structures, and inspections of around 2,000 other buildings are scheduled to assess earthquake damage. The local authorities are grappling with the aftermath, as transportation systems have been severely disrupted. With most public transport options, including the SkyTrain and subway, halted, many residents found themselves stranded. Ride-sharing prices have skyrocketed, increasing fourfold for those attempting to secure a ride home.
The devastation in Myanmar is compounded by ongoing internal conflicts, as the country has been embroiled in civil strife in recent years. The military government, led by General Min Aung Hlaing, is facing challenges from various armed groups and ethnic factions. In light of the disaster, General Hlaing has made a rare appeal for humanitarian assistance from both domestic and international communities, seeking support to address the urgent needs of those affected.
Infrastructure damage has been significant. One of the critical transportation routes, the Yangon-Mandalay highway, was severely impacted near Nay Pyi Taw and Mandalay, creating major obstacles for rescue efforts. In response, rescue teams and civilians have resorted to using older roads to facilitate the movement of supplies and personnel.
The situation remains fluid as rescue operations continue. As of now, the focus remains on locating survivors and providing immediate medical assistance to those injured. The international community is watching closely, and offers of aid are beginning to pour in as the severity of the earthquake becomes clearer.
The earthquake has not only caused physical destruction but has also intensified the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, the need for coordinated relief efforts has never been more urgent. The resilience of the Myanmar people is being tested, but their determination to support one another shines through in this dark time.
