A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and Thailand, killing at least three in Bangkok and collapsing a high-rise under construction. Myanmar reported severe destruction and urgent blood shortages. The tremors were felt in China, triggering widespread panic. Rescue teams are racing against time to locate missing victims amid unstable debris.
A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake shook Myanmar and Thailand on Friday, causing widespread destruction. At least three people died in Bangkok when a high-rise under construction collapsed, trapping dozens under the rubble. Myanmar, already facing a humanitarian crisis, reported severe damage, collapsed homes, and urgent blood shortages.
The quake, centered near Mandalay, was followed by a strong aftershock. In Bangkok, buildings swayed, prompting evacuations. A dramatic video captured a crane-topped building collapsing into a dust cloud near the Chatuchak market, sending panicked onlookers fleeing. Rescue teams are working to locate missing persons, but unstable debris complicates their efforts.
Myanmar’s military government declared a state of emergency in six regions. Reports from Mandalay and Sagaing indicate severe structural damage, with bridges and roads destroyed. Hospitals in affected areas are urgently requesting blood donations.
The tremors were felt as far as China’s Yunnan province, where structural damage and injuries were reported. In Bangkok, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an emergency meeting to assess the crisis.
Survivors described scenes of chaos, with buildings creaking, people rushing into the streets, and debris falling from rooftops. Emergency responders warn of potential aftershocks and advise residents to remain cautious.
The full extent of casualties and damage remains unclear as rescue efforts continue across the region.
