A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck the city of Mandalay in central Myanmar on Friday, leaving hundreds feared dead and extensive damage across the region. The tremor also triggered aftershocks that were felt as far as Bangkok in neighboring Thailand.
The earthquake, which struck around midday local time, has led to an estimated 700 fatalities, with authorities warning that the death toll could continue to rise. Information on the full extent of the destruction remains unclear, particularly in Myanmar, where ongoing civil conflict complicates communication and the flow of information.
“The death toll and injuries are expected to rise,” said Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar’s military government, during a television address. Reports indicate that hundreds are missing, while nearly 1,700 people have been injured. The earthquake also claimed at least 10 lives in Bangkok, located 1,330 km southeast of the epicenter, following the collapse of a high-rise building under construction. More than 100 people are still missing from three construction sites, and dozens more were injured.
The earthquake’s epicenter was near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, and aftershocks—more than 50—followed, with the strongest measuring at 6.4 magnitude. Although Myanmar lies in an active earthquake zone, major tremors typically occur in less populated areas, not cities like those affected by Friday’s quake.
The US Geological Survey has warned that the death toll could exceed 10,000. In Mandalay, several buildings, including one of the city’s largest monasteries, collapsed. Rescue operations are underway, with photos showing rescue crews pulling victims from the rubble in Naypyidaw, Myanmar’s capital. Authorities in Myanmar reported that blood donations are urgently needed in the hardest-hit areas.
While Myanmar has historically been slow to accept foreign aid, Min Aung Hlaing stated that the country is now ready to receive assistance. The United Nations has allocated $5 million (€4.62 million) to kick-start relief efforts. US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the United States would assist in the response, though concerns were raised over the impact of his administration’s cuts to foreign aid programs.
Rescuers face significant challenges in reaching some of the affected areas, as reports of buckled roads, a collapsed bridge, and a burst dam add to the difficulties of navigating the already difficult terrain of a country enduring a prolonged humanitarian crisis.
