On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake measuring between 7.7 and 7.9 struck central Myanmar, with tremors felt across Southeast Asia, including Bangkok, Thailand. The earthquake, which occurred at approximately 12:50 PM local time, was followed by a second, less intense quake of magnitude 6.4 just 12 minutes later, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The epicenter of the earthquake was located about 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing, near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, which has a population of around 1.2 million. Reports indicate that the natural disaster has resulted in significant destruction, with Myanmar authorities confirming at least 144 fatalities and over 700 injuries. However, rescue workers have warned that the death toll could rise dramatically as operations continue.
In Mandalay, a rescue worker told the BBC, "The damage is enormous. The number of dead is also quite high. This is all we can say at the moment because rescue operations are ongoing. The exact number of casualties is still unknown, but it is likely in the hundreds." This grim assessment highlights the scale of the devastation as emergency services scramble to provide aid.
Eyewitnesses described terrifying scenes as buildings shook violently. A resident of Mandalay recounted, "When everything started shaking, we ran out of the house. A five-story building collapsed before our eyes. Everyone who lives in the city is now on the street; no one dares to return to the buildings." Reports have emerged of various structures collapsing, including a tea shop where several people were trapped inside.
In Naypyidaw, the capital of Myanmar, roads were damaged, and plaster fell from ceilings in various buildings. The military junta governing Myanmar declared a state of emergency in several affected regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay, Bago, and Magway, as well as Naypyidaw. General Zaw Min Tun, a representative of the military government, has called for international humanitarian assistance.
As the situation in Myanmar unfolded, the earthquake's effects were also felt in neighboring Thailand. In Bangkok, an unfinished 30-story skyscraper collapsed in Chatuchak Park, killing at least three people and leaving approximately 90 others missing. The Thai Prime Minister, Petongtarn Chinawat, announced that Bangkok would be declared a disaster zone. Local reports indicated that tremors were felt throughout the city, causing panic among residents.
Witnesses in Bangkok described chaotic scenes as people fled buildings in bathrobes and swimsuits. A BBC reporter in the city noted, "Buildings were shaking, and water poured out of pools located on rooftops onto the streets below." The Thai government has urged residents to remain vigilant, warning of potential aftershocks in the coming days.
As rescue operations continued in both Myanmar and Thailand, the extent of the damage became clearer. In Mandalay, the historic Mandalay temple, built in the mid-19th century, suffered damage, and reports indicated that a bridge over the Irrawaddy River had collapsed. The region is now facing a humanitarian crisis, with hospitals overwhelmed by the influx of injured individuals.
A hospital in Naypyidaw has been designated as a major treatment center for the injured, with a capacity of 1,000 beds. However, reports suggest that medical staff are struggling to cope with the number of casualties. Dr. Cho Zin, a physician in Mandalay, stated, "The number of injured is increasing, but we are short of doctors and nurses." This highlights the urgent need for medical assistance in the wake of the disaster.
In addition to the human toll, the earthquake has also disrupted infrastructure. Parts of Bangkok's bridges have been closed, and the Thai aviation regulator implemented a temporary flight ban as a precautionary measure. The metro system in Bangkok has been suspended, and evacuations of residents from multi-story buildings are underway.
As the days unfold, authorities in both Myanmar and Thailand are working tirelessly to assess the damage and provide relief to those affected. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with many countries offering support and assistance. The full impact of this devastating earthquake is still being assessed, and as rescue efforts continue, more information will undoubtedly emerge.
In the wake of this disaster, many are left wondering how to rebuild and recover from such a significant loss. The resilience of the people in the affected regions will be tested as they face the challenges ahead.
