Nearly 150 Dead After Strong Earthquake in Myanmar

On Friday, March 28, 2025, a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Southeast Asia, primarily affecting Myanmar and Thailand. The epicenter was located near Myanmar’s former royal capital, Mandalay, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The tremor resulted in significant casualties and widespread destruction across the region.​

The earthquake, which also shook neighboring Thailand, was centered near the historic city of Mandalay and was felt as far away as India and China. The military government of Myanmar has declared a state of emergency and called for international aid as the nation grapples with the scale of the disaster.

Impact in Myanmar

Myanmar bore the brunt of the earthquake’s devastation. As of the latest reports, at least 144 people have been confirmed dead, with over 730 others injured. The cities of Mandalay and Naypyidaw experienced severe damage, including the collapse of buildings, bridges, and roads. The earthquake’s timing, occurring during the day, contributed to the high number of casualties as many people were at work or in public places. 

The military government of Myanmar has declared a state of emergency across six regions and has made a rare appeal for international aid to assist in rescue and relief operations. Rescue efforts are being hindered by damaged infrastructure, including blocked roads and disrupted communication lines. The ongoing civil conflict in the country further complicates these operations, as certain areas remain inaccessible due to security concerns. 

Impact in Thailand

In neighboring Thailand, the earthquake’s effects were also profoundly felt. In Bangkok, a 33-story building under construction collapsed, resulting in at least eight fatalities and trapping dozens under the rubble. Rescue teams are employing drones and rescue dogs to locate and assist those trapped. The Thai government has declared Bangkok a disaster area and is conducting thorough damage assessments across the city. ​ 

Regional Effects and International Response

The earthquake’s tremors extended beyond Myanmar and Thailand, with reports of shaking felt in parts of China and India. In China, there have been reports of additional damage and injuries, though details remain limited. The international community has expressed condolences and offers of support. Pope Francis extended his sympathy to the victims, and the World Health Organization is mobilizing medical supplies and assistance to the affected areas

Widespread Destruction Across Myanmar

The tremor caused extensive damage to cities and rural communities alike. In Mandalay, the second-largest city in Myanmar, multiple buildings collapsed, including several residential apartments, temples, and bridges. The capital, Naypyidaw, also reported heavy damage, with government buildings and infrastructure severely impacted. The earthquake’s shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) intensified its impact, leading to greater destruction and casualties.

Rescue workers, volunteers, and military personnel are working tirelessly to recover survivors from the rubble. However, the efforts have been slowed by damaged roads and disrupted communication networks, making it difficult for aid to reach remote villages where homes have been leveled.

Myanmar’s Military Government Appeals for International Help

Myanmar’s ruling military junta, which took control of the country in a coup in 2021, has appealed for international assistance—a rare move given the regime’s isolation from much of the world due to ongoing political turmoil. The government has requested urgent supplies, including medical aid, food, and temporary shelters, as thousands of people have been displaced from their homes.

International humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations, Red Cross, and World Health Organization, have pledged support. Neighboring countries such as China, India, and Thailand have also expressed their willingness to send relief supplies and rescue teams to assist in the response efforts.

Aftershocks and Fears of Further Damage

Seismologists have warned of aftershocks in the coming days, which could cause further damage to already weakened structures. Many residents remain outdoors, afraid to return to their homes due to the risk of collapsing buildings. Hospitals in Mandalay and Naypyidaw are overwhelmed with injured patients, forcing medical teams to set up emergency treatment centers in open areas.

Impact in Thailand and Regional Effects

The earthquake’s impact was not confined to Myanmar alone. In Bangkok, Thailand, a 33-story building under construction collapsed due to the tremors, killing at least eight people and trapping dozens under the debris. Rescue teams in Thailand are racing against time to locate survivors, using drones and rescue dogs to navigate the wreckage.

Shocks from the earthquake were also reported in parts of India and China. While these areas did not suffer significant damage, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and assessing potential risks from aftershocks.

Challenges for Rescue Operations

The relief effort in Myanmar is facing numerous challenges, including blocked roads, disrupted power and water supplies, and political instability. Many affected areas, particularly in conflict-ridden regions, are difficult to access due to security concerns. This is complicating the delivery of aid and medical care to those in desperate need.

Amid these difficulties, humanitarian groups are calling for an immediate and coordinated global response to ensure the safety and well-being of the earthquake victims.

Long-Term Implications and Rebuilding Efforts

Experts warn that Myanmar’s recovery from this disaster will be long and arduous. The destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals has left many communities vulnerable. With Myanmar already struggling due to its political and economic crises, the earthquake’s impact will likely worsen living conditions for thousands of citizens.

There is also growing concern about public health risks, including outbreaks of waterborne diseases due to disrupted sanitation systems. Emergency response teams are prioritizing clean water access and food distribution to prevent further humanitarian crises.

Global Response and Calls for Support

The international community is rallying to assist Myanmar during this tragic time. Pope Francis, along with several world leaders, has expressed condolences and solidarity with the people of Myanmar. The United Nations is mobilizing emergency teams, while various NGOs are launching fundraising campaigns to provide aid to those affected.

As rescue efforts continue and the country begins to assess the full extent of the disaster, Myanmar faces a daunting road to recovery. The coming days will be critical in determining how well authorities and humanitarian organizations can manage the crisis and provide relief to the thousands in need.

Historical Context

This earthquake is one of the most powerful to hit the region in recent history. In 2012, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, resulting in at least 26 deaths and significant damage to infrastructure. The current disaster surpasses previous events in both magnitude and impact, underscoring the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity. 

Skyscraper Toppled in Bangkok 

A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, also caused severe destruction in neighboring Thailand, leading to the collapse of a skyscraper in Bangkok. The 33-story high-rise, which was under construction near Chatuchak Park, crumbled due to the tremors, killing at least eight people and trapping dozens beneath the rubble. Emergency response teams, equipped with heavy machinery, drones, and rescue dogs, are working tirelessly to locate survivors. The collapse has raised concerns about construction safety standards in the city, prompting Thai authorities to launch an urgent investigation into the building’s structural integrity and compliance with seismic regulations.

Buildings/ Bridges in Myanmar collapse 

The powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, caused widespread destruction, with numerous buildings and bridges collapsing across the country. In Mandalay, entire residential complexes, temples, and office buildings were reduced to rubble, trapping many residents under debris. Key infrastructure, including bridges along major highways, suffered severe damage, hampering rescue and relief operations. The capital, Naypyidaw, also experienced structural failures, with government offices and commercial buildings sustaining extensive damage. Roads cracked, and landslides were reported in hilly regions, further complicating access to affected areas. The destruction has left thousands homeless, and emergency crews are racing against time to rescue survivors while the military government appeals for international aid to support rebuilding efforts. At 40 Degrees, Delhi Sees Hottest Day of 2025; IMD Predicts Heatwave Across North India