A massive earthquake has struck Southeast Asia, with a magnitude of 7.7, causing devastation across Myanmar and Thailand. The quake, which occurred on March 28, 2025, at approximately 1:21 p.m. local time, has resulted in significant structural damage, particularly in Bangkok, where high-rise buildings swayed dangerously and some collapsed.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake's epicenter was located 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, at a depth of 10 kilometers. This seismic event is noted to be the strongest worldwide since 2023, and it was followed by a 6.4 magnitude aftershock that further rattled the region.
In Bangkok, the impact was immediate and severe. Many high-rises, including office buildings, hotels, and residential complexes, were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes, with alarms sounding and people rushing to safety. Fraser Morton, a tourist from Scotland, recounted the moment, stating, "All of a sudden the whole building began to move. Immediately there was screaming and a lot of panic."
The earthquake has resulted in at least two confirmed fatalities and over 50 injuries due to a building collapse in the capital. A high-rise structure under construction near Bangkok's popular Chatuchak market gave way, trapping workers inside. Rescue operations are ongoing, with emergency responders indicating that seven individuals have been rescued from the rubble.
As the tremors subsided, the Thai government declared Bangkok a disaster area, enabling quicker access to emergency aid and resources. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has established an earthquake incident command center to coordinate response efforts and assess the damage across the city.
In addition to the destruction in Bangkok, the earthquake also affected parts of Myanmar. Reports indicate that the quake damaged the former royal palace in Mandalay and caused a 90-year-old bridge to collapse in the Sagaing region. In total, several homes and public structures were compromised, prompting evacuations in various cities, including Naypyitaw and Yangon.
The quake's effects were felt beyond Thailand and Myanmar, reaching provinces in southern China, including Yunnan and Sichuan. In Ruili, a border city, residents reported damaged homes and injuries, with one individual seen being wheeled away on a stretcher.
The phenomenon of overflowing infinity pools in luxury hotels became one of the most striking visual symbols of the disaster. As buildings shook, rooftop pools at high-end establishments like the Banyan Tree and the Waldorf Astoria transformed into waterfalls, cascading over the edges and creating hazardous conditions. James Chen, a witness at the Banyan Tree, described how "the water was literally shooting off the edge like a waterfall. I’ve never seen anything like it."
Structural engineers have raised concerns about the potential long-term damage caused by the seismic activity. Dr. Suchinda Pattanapong of the Thailand Building Safety Institute warned that water intrusion could weaken concrete and electrical systems in high-rise buildings. Preliminary assessments indicate that at least five major hotels suffered significant water damage, and urgent safety measures are being implemented.
In the wake of the earthquake, authorities have issued safety guidelines for tourists staying in high-rise accommodations. They advise immediate evacuation of pool areas during tremors and caution against using elevators. Tourists are urged to keep emergency kits ready, including passports, medications, and flashlights.
The impact of the earthquake on Thailand’s tourism industry is already being felt, particularly as the country was simultaneously hosting the Bangkok Motor Show, showcasing new electric vehicle brands. The juxtaposition of a thriving commercial event against the backdrop of a natural disaster highlights the vulnerabilities faced by urban centers in seismically active regions.
As recovery efforts continue, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed. Emergency responders are working diligently to ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike. The local government has urged the public to stay informed through reliable news sources and to heed any official advisories regarding aftershocks and safety protocols.
The earthquake serves as a stark reminder of nature's unpredictable power and the importance of preparedness in urban environments. With millions living in high-rise buildings across Bangkok, the need for robust safety measures and emergency response plans has never been more critical.
As the situation develops, authorities and rescue teams remain on high alert, ready to respond to any further seismic activity. The coming days will be crucial in determining the full impact of this unprecedented earthquake on the region.
