Deadly Earthquake Strikes Southeast Asia, Myanmar Declares Emergency

“A devastating earthquake hit Southeast Asia on Friday, claiming multiple lives and causing widespread destruction. The tremor, measuring 7.7 in magnitude according to the US Geological Survey (USGS), struck Myanmar’s central region at a depth of 10km, sending shockwaves into neighbouring Thailand and China’s Yunnan province.

In Myanmar, the military government declared a state of emergency in affected areas as rescue efforts intensified. Three fatalities were reported in Taungoo after a mosque partially collapsed, while local media confirmed at least two deaths and 20 injuries when a hotel crumbled in Aung Ban. In Mandalay, social media posts depicted collapsed buildings, streets covered in debris, and a damaged section of Mandalay Palace’s perimeter wall. A resident described witnessing a five-storey building fall, adding, “No one dares to go back inside.”

Thailand also faced serious impacts, with a skyscraper under construction in Bangkok collapsing. Emergency services rescued dozens of workers, but at least one fatality was reported. Panic spread across the capital as office buildings swayed for minutes, forcing hundreds to evacuate via emergency staircases. City officials declared Bangkok a disaster-stricken zone to assess damage and assist those at risk.

In China, tremors were felt in Yunnan province, though no casualties were reported. Meanwhile, Myanmar’s military pledged urgent humanitarian aid and rescue operations. Authorities continue to search for survivors as aftershocks pose ongoing risks in the region.”