The central part of Myanmar experienced a major 7.7 magnitude earthquake on Friday that triggered broad panic followed by widespread destruction. A severe tremor originated near Sagaing in Myanmar at 12:50 pm local time with its centre located 16 kilometers north-west of town. A subsequent magnitude 6.4 aftershock appeared twelve minutes after the initial tremor thus expanding destruction all across the area.
People Evacuated from Buildings
The massive quake spread tremors that reached Thailand where it affected both Bangkok and Chiang Mai cities. People throughout Bangkok evacuated their buildings hurriedly while being in their pajamas during the earthquake. Harrowing videos captured in the city demonstrate how tall buildings experienced extreme shaking that caused residents to seek protection. An under-construction skyscraper in the Chatuchak area fell during construction while trapping at least 40 workers inside, but authorities confirmed no one lost their life in Thailand.
In Myanmar, the destruction was widespread. The Ava Bridge, an iconic structure connecting the Sagaing and Ava regions, collapsed into the Irrawaddy River. Several buildings in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, also crumbled. Videos from Mandalay and other areas show debris scattered on the streets, with residents in a state of shock, many trapped under the rubble. Residential buildings, as well as commercial and historical structures, were heavily damaged.
Footages Spread Throughout Social Media
The damage spread throughout Myanmar to an extreme extent. The Ava Bridge fell into the Irrawaddy River while connecting the Sagaing to the Ava regions. The buildings of Mandalay suffered complete destruction as the second largest city of Myanmar. Visual footage from Mandalay and other cities displays broken debris scattered across streets and reveals residents who remain in disbelief while some individuals attempt to escape from collapsed buildings.
Despite the severity of the situation, no tsunami warnings were issued, and there have been no confirmed reports of widespread casualties at this point. Myanmar’s already fragile healthcare system, especially in its rural areas, is expected to face significant challenges in the coming hours as rescue operations continue.
PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra held emergency meeting
The earthquake’s impact also extended to other regions in Southeast Asia, with tremors felt in China’s Yunnan province. Back in Thailand, several buildings were evacuated, and some metro and rail services in Bangkok were temporarily halted. In response to the crisis, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held an emergency meeting to assess the situation and coordinate efforts for relief and recovery.
As rescue teams in Myanmar begin their search efforts, the true extent of the damage and the number of casualties remains unclear. The quake highlights the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity, particularly along the Sagaing Fault, which has caused significant earthquakes in the past.
