Massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Myanmar, several dead; tremors felt in Thailand, China and India
PTC Web Desk: A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar at 12.50 pm (local time) on Friday, followed by a 6.8 magnitude aftershock. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the epicentre was 16 km northwest of Sagaing at a depth of 10 km. Local media have reported at least 20 fatalities, with expectations that the number will rise as rescue efforts continue.
In Mandalay, a mosque collapsed during prayers, causing multiple casualties. Emergency response teams are working to rescue those trapped under the debris. The Myanmar military junta has declared a state of emergency and requested international aid to manage the crisis.
Whole Bangkok shook like Crazy! #Bangkok #earthquake pic.twitter.com/99v7ySZDGc — Srushti Gopani (@DrSrushtiG) March 28, 2025
The earthquake's impact extended beyond Myanmar. Strong tremors were felt in Bangkok, leading to the suspension of metro and rail services. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has called an urgent meeting and declared a state of emergency in the capital.
Big earthquake in Bangkok. Whole building was shaking for 3 min or so pic.twitter.com/ztizXSoGl1 — On The Rug (@On_the_Rug) March 28, 2025
In China,Yunnan province recorded a 7.9 magnitude tremor, as reported by the China Earthquake Networks Centre.
Mild tremors were experienced in Kolkata (West Bengal), Manipur, and parts of Dhaka and Chattogram in Bangladesh.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern and offered assistance, stating on X (formerly Twitter), "Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. Have asked our authorities to be on standby."
Breaking: Video shows the moment a skyscraper under construction collapsed due to earthquake in Bangkok. pic.twitter.com/OIdxc4epKf — PM Breaking News (@PMBreakingNews) March 28, 2025
Terrifying videos on social media show buildings shaking, people fleeing, and infrastructure damage in multiple locations. Some of the most shocking incidents include water spilling over from an infinity pool and a skyscraper under construction in Chatuchak collapsing, trapping 43 workers.
In Myanmar, there is a disturbing video of an old bridge over the Irrawaddy River being collapsed, along with several residential buildings. Reports suggest more people may be trapped under the rubble in Mandalay.
Videos also show significant damage to the airport in Mandalay and a monastery in Taunggyi near the Thailand border.
Myanmar is located along the Sagaing Fault, making earthquakes common. Since 1930, at least six major quakes above 7.0 magnitude have struck the region. In 2016, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake in Bagan killed three people and caused damage to ancient temples.
- With inputs from agencies
