A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake, followed by a 6.8 aftershock, struck central Myanmar at 12:50 PM (local time) on Friday, with its epicenter located 16 km northwest of Sagaing at a depth of 10 km, according to the United States Geological Survey. Reports indicate that at least 20 people have died in Myanmar, with the toll expected to rise.
In Mandalay, a mosque collapsed during prayers, leading to multiple casualties. Rescue operations are underway as authorities fear more people may be trapped. The Myanmar junta has declared an emergency and appealed for international assistance.
The tremors were felt as far as northern Thailand, prompting the suspension of metro and rail services in Bangkok. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an urgent crisis meeting and declared an emergency in the capital. China’s Yunnan province also recorded strong tremors, with its Earthquake Networks Center reporting a magnitude of 7.9.
In India, mild tremors were experienced in Kolkata, Manipur, and parts of Bangladesh, including Dhaka and Chattogram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured India’s readiness to provide aid and urged authorities to remain on standby.
Disturbing footage on social media captured buildings swaying and people rushing to safety. In Bangkok, an under-construction skyscraper collapsed, trapping at least 43 workers under the debris. Deputy police chief Worapat Sukthai warned of potential mass casualties.
In Myanmar, images from Mandalay suggest widespread destruction, including the collapse of an old bridge over the Irrawaddy River. Mandalay’s airport and a monastery near Taunggyi also suffered significant damage. A fire broke out at Mandalay University, adding to concerns over casualties.
Myanmar, located along the active Sagaing Fault, has experienced multiple major quakes in the past. In 2016, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake in Bagan killed three people and damaged historic temples. The country’s fragile healthcare system, particularly in rural areas, is expected to struggle with the aftermath of this disaster.
