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A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday afternoon, causing severe destruction and panic. The tremors were so strong that people felt them in Thailand, southwest China, and even Vietnam.
Epicenter and Aftershock
According to the authority, the earthquake’s epicenter was 16 km (10 miles) northwest of Sagaing, a city near Mandalay, which has a population of 1.5 million. Just 12 minutes later, a strong 6.4-magnitude aftershock hit the same region.
Death Toll and Damage
The Myanmar military leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, confirmed that at least 144 people have died, and more than 732 are injured in just three cities. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue teams continue their work. Hospitals in Mandalay are overwhelmed with injured victims.
Buildings Collapsed, Roads Damaged
In Myanmar’s capital, Nay Pyi Taw, and other cities, roads have cracked, and buildings have collapsed. Rescue teams are trying to save trapped people.
Impact in Thailand and China
The earthquake also caused destruction in Thailand. In Bangkok, an unfinished high-rise building collapsed, killing at least seven people and leaving many missing. A viral video showed water spilling from a rooftop pool as buildings swayed.
People in southwest China and Vietnam also felt strong tremors, shaking bridges and homes.
Myanmar is in a High-Risk Earthquake Zone
Myanmar is located in the Alpide Belt, one of the world’s most active earthquake zones. Three earthquakes of magnitude 7.7 or higher have struck the country in the last 100 years, with the last one in 1988.
The shallow depth of the earthquake (6 miles) made the shaking more violent. Experts warn that aftershocks could continue, and damage assessments are still ongoing.
Rescue Efforts Continue
Emergency teams are working hard to rescue trapped people and provide medical help. The full impact of the disaster is still unknown, and authorities expect the number of victims to increase.
