A massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread devastation and significant loss of life across Southeast Asia. The tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand, where a high-rise building under construction collapsed, exacerbating the disaster’s toll.
The earthquake’s epicenter was near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, leading to severe damage in the area. Buildings crumbled, infrastructure was compromised, and residents were left in panic as aftershocks continued to shake the region.
In Bangkok, the tremors caused a 30-story building under construction to collapse. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared the city an emergency zone in response to the disaster. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities search for survivors amidst the rubble.
The earthquake has resulted in a significant loss of life. In Myanmar, at least 144 people have been reported dead, with over 730 injured. In Bangkok, the collapsed building has led to at least eight fatalities, with many others still unaccounted for. The numbers are expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.
The quake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar and Thailand, with tremors felt in neighboring countries, causing injuries and structural damage. In Myanmar, the disaster has compounded existing challenges, as the nation grapples with ongoing civil conflict, making rescue and relief efforts even more complex.
In the wake of the disaster, international aid organizations and neighboring countries have pledged support to assist in rescue operations and provide humanitarian aid to the affected populations.