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A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The tremors were felt across Southeast Asia and China, leaving thousands injured and homeless. The disaster has intensified Myanmar’s humanitarian crisis, already worsened by ongoing civil conflict.
Where Did the Earthquake Strike?
The earthquake’s epicenter was near Sagaing, about 16 km northwest of the city. Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, lies close to this region and suffered significant damage. The first quake struck at 12:50 p.m. local time, followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock 12 minutes later. The earthquake occurred along the Sagaing Fault, one of the most active seismic zones in the region.
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Countries Affected by the Tremors
The earthquake impacted several countries, with Myanmar experiencing the most destruction. The city of Mandalay, home to 1.5 million people, was hit hard. Thailand also suffered damage, especially in Bangkok, where a high-rise building under construction collapsed. The Thai government declared the city an emergency area. In China, buildings were damaged in Yunnan Province, especially in the border city of Ruili. Tremors were also felt in Bangladesh, but there were no immediate reports of damage.
Death Toll and Damage
Myanmar’s military government confirmed 1,644 deaths and over 3,400 injuries. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue workers search for survivors. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimates fatalities could exceed 10,000. Mandalay witnessed the collapse of the historic Ava Bridge and damage to ancient monuments.
In Thailand, at least nine people died, and many remain buried under rubble. The city’s elevated train service was suspended after the tremors. Videos showed rooftop pools overflowing due to the intense shaking.
Challenges in Relief and Rescue Operations
The earthquake caused widespread infrastructure damage, blocking roads and delaying relief efforts. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported severe shortages of medical supplies, including trauma kits, blood bags, and essential medicines. Hospitals in Mandalay, Magway, and Naypyidaw are struggling to handle the influx of injured people.
Thousands of people are sleeping in open spaces due to damaged homes and fear of aftershocks. The Yangon-Nay Pyi Taw-Mandalay expressway suffered extensive cracks, forcing highway buses to suspend operations. Telecommunications and internet disruptions have further complicated rescue missions.
Myanmar’s Military Government and Global Aid Response
The military junta, which took control in 2021, has struggled to coordinate rescue operations. The country faces censorship, making it difficult for information to reach the outside world. Despite these challenges, Myanmar has called for international aid. India, the United States, and several other nations have pledged support.
Why Was This Earthquake So Destructive?
Myanmar lies on the eastern end of the Alpide Belt, a highly active seismic zone. The quake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 km, causing stronger ground shaking. Three earthquakes of magnitude 7.7 or greater have hit Myanmar in the last century, the most recent in 1988.
Earthquakes occur when tectonic plates shift suddenly due to built-up pressure. The magnitude scale measures both the distance of movement and the force involved. A magnitude of 7.7 is classified as major and typically causes severe damage. The Myanmar earthquake was especially destructive because of its shallow depth and proximity to densely populated areas.
Travel Warnings and Safety Concerns
Governments worldwide have issued travel warnings for Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos. The UK Foreign Office has warned about possible strong aftershocks. It has also advised against non-essential travel to parts of Myanmar due to its unstable political situation. Thailand’s advisory relates to attacks in provinces near Malaysia, while Laos has faced infrastructure attacks and armed clashes.
Comparisons to Past Earthquakes
Friday’s quake was powerful but not the most severe in history. The deadliest earthquake in the region occurred on December 26, 2004, when a 9.1-magnitude quake off Indonesia triggered a tsunami, killing around 228,000 people. The most powerful earthquake ever recorded was a 9.5-magnitude quake in Chile in 1960.
The Myanmar earthquake has left thousands dead, injured, or homeless. The damage to infrastructure and ongoing censorship make rescue efforts challenging. With limited resources, Myanmar is relying on international aid to support relief efforts. As the situation unfolds, urgent humanitarian assistance remains critical for those affected by this devastating disaster.