Massive Earthquake Rocks Myanmar and Thailand: Deaths and Destruction Ensue

A devastating earthquake has hit Asia.

On March 28, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake occurred in central Myanmar, triggering a subsequent 6.4-magnitude aftershock. The tremors were strongly felt not just in Myanmar but also in nearby Thailand.

As reported by NBC News, at least three fatalities have been confirmed so far in both Myanmar and Thailand, but the exact number could increase substantially as additional details become available.

1:30 in the afternoon saw an earthquake occur in Myanmar’s Mandalay, according to NBC News, supported by data from the U.S. Geological Survey. It happened at a depth of around 6 miles below the surface. Interestingly, just 11 minutes afterwards, there was a subsequent tremor or aftershock.

A representative from the United Nations Office on Humanitarian Affairs told NBC News that preliminary data suggests the heartland of Myanmar has been severely affected, revealing extensive destruction throughout the area.

In the bustling city of Bangkok, Thailand, a 33-story building under construction, close to the renowned Chatuchak market, has crumbled due to an earthquake. According to NBC News reports, at least three people lost their lives in this collapse. However, Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated that over 80 individuals are currently trapped beneath the debris.

Videos depicting the building’s demolition (confirmed by NBC News) vividly captured the alarming instant when construction workers scrambled to escape as the structure crumbled amid a cloud of smoke. Additional clips circulated, illustrating road damage, commuters exiting Bangkok’s Skytrain system, and water gushing from rooftop pools.

17 million people call Bangkok their home, with numerous residents residing in towering skyscrapers. After an earthquake caused widespread disruption, forcing countless individuals to leave their homes and places of work, the city has been designated as a disaster area, as reported by NBC News.

A tourist named Fraser Morton from Scotland, currently in a Bangkok shopping center, informed the Associated Press that he felt the entire structure start to shake unexpectedly. This was quickly followed by screams and widespread panic.

He stepped outside, gazed upward, and noticed the entire structure shaking, with clouds of dust and rubble flying around. It was quite a powerful experience,” he continued, using a stronger word to emphasize the situation’s intensity. “There was a lot of confusion and disorder.

As a diligent resident of Bangkok, I was advised by officials to spend time outside during the hours following the earthquake, as there was a chance of additional aftershocks occurring.

In nearly 75 years, the earthquake that recently occurred in Myanmar – a country where conflict has persisted for many years – marks the largest seismic event, as stated by geophysical and climate hazards professor at University College London, Bill McGuire, according to NBC News.

He stated that a large size paired with minimal depth increases the likelihood of harm. Given the intensity of the quake, it’s highly probable that the construction won’t be robust enough to withstand this level of shaking. As we learn more about the extent of the catastrophe, the number of casualties is expected to rise substantially.

2025-03-28 16:47

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