7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar, Tremors Felt in Thailand, India & China

A catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, sending shockwaves across the region. The tremors were powerful enough to be felt in China, Thailand, and parts of India, causing widespread panic and structural damage. The Myanmar earthquake’s epicenter was located 16 kilometers (10 miles) northwest of Sagaing, at a depth of 10 kilometers, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake struck at approximately 12:50 PM local time (0620 GMT).

Casualties and Destruction in Myanmar

The full extent of damage is still unclear, but early reports indicate significant destruction. A doctor from a hospital in Naypyidaw, Myanmar’s capital, confirmed that at least 20 people have lost their lives. Authorities fear the number may rise as rescue efforts continue. The Red Cross has reported initial findings of “significant damage,” with collapsed structures and downed power lines making rescue operations more challenging.

Impact in Thailand: Skyscraper Collapse in Bangkok

The tremors from the Myanmar earthquake were felt throughout northern Thailand and even down to Bangkok, causing widespread panic. A high-rise building under construction in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district collapsed due to the seismic activity, killing three people and leaving 81 others trapped under the rubble. Emergency teams are working tirelessly to locate and rescue survivors.

In Bangkok, commuters fled metro and light rail stations as authorities temporarily suspended train services. “We felt the ground shaking, and everyone rushed out of their buildings. It was terrifying,” said Somchai Ratanapong, a Bangkok resident who witnessed the chaos.

Tremors Reach China, India, and Vietnam

The quake’s impact extended to China, where the Beijing earthquake agency recorded the event as a 7.9 magnitude quake. In Yunnan province, residents reported buildings shaking violently, though no major damages have been confirmed yet.

In India, mild tremors were felt in Kolkata and Imphal, with no immediate reports of casualties or damage. Vietnam also recorded tremors, though the effects were less severe compared to neighboring countries.

Eyewitnesses Describe a ‘Horrendous’ Experience

Survivors described the moments of terror as the ground shook beneath them. Fraser Morton, a tourist from Scotland who was shopping in Bangkok, recounted his experience:

“All of a sudden, the whole building started swaying. People panicked, running towards the exits, some even rushing the wrong way down the escalators. It was sheer chaos.”

Witnesses also reported car alarms going off and furniture inside homes toppling over in multiple affected cities.

Indian Embassy Issues Emergency Helpline

Following the Myanmar earthquake, the Indian Embassy in Bangkok issued an emergency helpline (+66 618819218) for Indian nationals needing assistance. The embassy assured that it is closely coordinating with Thai authorities and has not received reports of any Indian casualties so far.

Rescue Efforts Underway Amidst Power Outages

Rescue teams in Myanmar are facing difficulties reaching affected areas due to damaged infrastructure and power outages in Mandalay, Sagaing, and Shan State. The Red Cross and other humanitarian organizations are mobilizing aid and relief operations, prioritizing trapped victims and displaced residents.

Myanmar’s Seismic History and Preparedness

Myanmar is no stranger to earthquakes. Between 1930 and 1956, the country experienced at least six major quakes above 7.0 magnitude near the Sagaing Fault, which runs through its central region. Despite this, modern infrastructure remains vulnerable, and experts have long warned about the risks of high-magnitude earthquakes.

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