Kathmandu, March 28, 2025 - In a tragic turn of events, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar near the city of Mandalay at approximately 12:50 PM local time today. The quake, originating at a shallow depth of just 10 kilometers, wreaked havoc in the region and was felt across neighboring countries, including Thailand.
Impact in Myanmar
The earthquake has claimed the lives of at least 144 individuals in Myanmar, with over 700 injured and countless others displaced. The city of Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest urban center, bore the brunt of the devastation. Numerous buildings, bridges, and roads have collapsed, and rescue operations are underway to search for survivors trapped under the rubble.
Among the damaged sites are the historic Mandalay Palace and several temples in Bagan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where centuries-old structures have been reduced to ruins. The situation remains dire as residents fear further aftershocks and gather in open spaces for safety.
Ripple Effects in Thailand
The tremors extended to Bangkok, Thailand, where a 30-story building under construction tragically collapsed. This incident resulted in multiple fatalities, with over 100 individuals still unaccounted for. Thai authorities have declared the affected areas as disaster zones, and rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors.
International Response
Myanmar’s military-led government has declared a state of emergency and made a rare appeal for international aid to bolster rescue and relief efforts. Despite the ongoing political unrest in the country, international organizations and neighboring nations have pledged support.
Geological Context
The earthquake occurred along the Sagaing Fault, a major tectonic boundary known for its seismic activity. This fault, characterized by its strike-slip motion, is a well-documented seismic hazard, making the region particularly vulnerable to such disasters.
Ongoing Relief Efforts
Rescue and relief operations continue in both Myanmar and Thailand as authorities work to assess the full extent of the damage. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, and emergency aid is being dispatched to support the affected regions.
Ecosphere News will continue to provide updates on this developing story, with a focus on the environmental, social, and geopolitical implications of this tragedy.
