Two Powerful Earthquakes Hit Myanmar; Strong Tremors Felt in Bangkok

At least 25 people have so far died in the two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.7 and 6.4 in magnitude, struck central Myanmar on Friday, sending strong tremors across the region, including in Bangkok, Thailand.

Epicenter and Impact in Myanmar

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the first quake, with a magnitude of 6.4, hit 18 km south of Sagaing, Myanmar. Shortly after, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck 16 km north-northwest of Sagaing, intensifying the tremors felt across the region.

The epicenter of the earthquakes was located about 50 kilometers (30 miles) east of Monywa, a city in central Myanmar. While the country is currently grappling with a civil war, there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties from the quakes at the time of writing. Authorities and local agencies are assessing the impact, particularly in areas close to the epicenter.

Panic in Bangkok as Tremors Shake High-Rises

The tremors were strongly felt in Bangkok, home to over 17 million people, many of whom reside in high-rise buildings. The shaking prompted panic among residents, with many evacuating condominiums and hotels in the densely populated central districts. People gathered in the streets, seeking shade from the midday sun as they waited for further updates.

Seismologists and disaster response teams are closely monitoring the situation. Authorities in Thailand and Myanmar have urged residents to remain cautious, especially in high-rise structures and areas vulnerable to aftershocks.