At least 1,000 people have lost their lives after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, causing widespread devastation and shaking neighboring Thailand. The quake, the strongest to hit Myanmar in over a century, has left more than 2,300 people injured, with hundreds still missing. The US Geological Survey estimates that the death toll could rise beyond 10,000.
The tremors caused buildings, bridges, and roads to collapse across Myanmar, particularly in remote areas where communication remains unreliable. In Thailand’s capital, Bangkok—located nearly 1,000 km (620 miles) from the epicenter—at least 10 deaths have been reported. Rescue workers are racing to save more than 100 people trapped beneath the rubble of an under-construction high-rise.
Myanmar, already struggling due to an ongoing civil war following the 2021 military coup, lacks the infrastructure to respond effectively to such a large-scale disaster. Aid organizations report severe challenges in reaching affected communities due to communication blackouts and damaged roads.
As rescue efforts continue, concerns grow over the long-term humanitarian impact of the earthquake. Relief agencies are calling for urgent international assistance to aid survivors and rebuild affected areas.
