Myanmar Earthquake Tragedy: Over 144 Dead, 732 Injured As Powerful Quakes Shake Region

A series of powerful earthquakes struck central Myanmar on Friday, leaving at least 144 dead and 732 injured, according to state-run broadcaster MRTV. The strongest quake, measuring 7.7 in magnitude, hit near the city of Sagaing at 12:50 PM local time, with tremors felt as far as northern Thailand, where it disrupted metro and rail services.

The devastation in Myanmar has been severe, with buildings collapsing in multiple cities. A hospital in Naypyidaw, the capital, has been overwhelmed with casualties, prompting concerns that the toll may rise significantly.

A mosque in Mandalay crumbled while worshippers were inside, and a university building in the same city caught fire, causing further destruction. Myanmar's military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has declared an emergency and issued an appeal for international aid, urging "any country and any organization" to assist in relief efforts.

Widespread Damage and Desperate Rescue Efforts

In Bangkok, an under-construction 30-floor skyscraper in the Chatuchak neighborhood collapsed, trapping 84 workers. Emergency teams are working tirelessly to rescue those still buried under the rubble.

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai estimated that hundreds may be injured, with three deaths confirmed so far. Back in Myanmar, horrifying visuals from Naypyidaw’s main hospital showed the emergency department’s entrance arch collapsed onto a car, forcing medical staff to treat patients outside.

In Mandalay, an old bridge over the Irrawaddy River gave way, and multiple residential buildings crumbled. Roads connecting Mandalay to Yangon sustained heavy damage, further hampering relief efforts.

Myanmar’s History of Earthquakes Myanmar

sits along the Sagaing Fault, making it prone to strong earthquakes. Between 1930 and 1956, six quakes of magnitude 7.0 or higher struck near the region. More recently, a 6.8-magnitude quake in 2016 killed three people and caused significant damage to ancient temples in Bagan.

With a fragile healthcare system, especially in rural areas, Myanmar now faces a massive humanitarian challenge. Rescue operations are underway, but authorities fear the death toll will continue to rise as teams reach affected areas.

With inputs from agencies