A massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake has left a deadly trail of destruction across central Myanmar and parts of Thailand, leaving devastation in its wake and a rising death toll.
Myanmar’s military junta confirmed that at least 144 people were tragically killed and 737 injured in the catastrophic quake that struck on Friday (March 28), The Independent reported.
In a national address, General Min Aung Hlaing warned, “There will be more deaths and casualties,” as rescue efforts continued across the region.
In Bangkok, tremors triggered a separate disaster. A high-rise building under construction near the city’s Chatuchak Market suddenly collapsed, blanketing the area in a massive cloud of dust.
Terrifying footage captured the moment the structure gave way, with onlookers screaming and fleeing as the scene disappeared in a choking haze.
So far, nine people have been confirmed dead in the Bangkok collapse, including eight construction workers. At least 117 remain unaccounted for, according to the city’s deputy governor Tavida Kamolvej.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said the quake struck at a depth of just 10km (6.2 miles), with the epicenter located about 17km from Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. A powerful 6.4 aftershock followed shortly after, compounding the devastation.
Myanmar’s military leader issued a global appeal for help, urging “any country” to send aid and donations.
Routes have now been opened for international assistance, and offers of help from India and Southeast Asia’s ASEAN bloc have already been accepted, Hlaing said.
Meanwhile, the extent of the damage could be far worse than initial estimates. A US government predictive analysis warned of potentially thousands of deaths and significant economic fallout from the quake. The Sagaing and Meiktila regions were identified as the worst hit.
“Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though resistant structures exist,” the analysis stated. “High casualties and extensive damage are probable and the disaster is likely widespread.”
Pope Francis, still recovering from a five-week hospital stay for double pneumonia, also weighed in, offering prayers for the victims.
“The pope has been informed of the disaster in Myanmar and is praying for the dramatic situation and for the many victims, also in Thailand,” the Vatican said in a statement.
Rescue efforts are ongoing as first responders dig through debris in both countries, racing against time and bracing for further aftershocks that could bring even more buildings down.
Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy.
