Myanmar Earthquake Kills 1,000+ as Rescue Efforts Continue

Photo: AP

A powerful earthquake hit Myanmar on Friday, causing the deaths of at least 1,000 people and leaving over 2,000 injured. Officials fear that the numbers will rise as rescue teams continue their search for survivors.

In neighboring Thailand, the quake caused a 33-story building under construction in Bangkok to collapse, killing at least 6 people and injuring many others.

Myanmar’s Military Seeks International Help

Myanmar’s military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, spoke on state TV and said he had asked for international support. He confirmed that Myanmar has accepted offers for help from the AHA Center and India.

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The 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, around midday on Friday. About 11 minutes later, a strong 6.4-magnitude aftershock followed.

Hospitals Overwhelmed, Death Toll May Rise

The earthquake hit areas where many people live, unlike previous quakes that mostly struck remote regions. Hospitals in Naypyidaw, Mandalay, and Sagaing are struggling to handle the large number of victims.

General Min Aung Hlaing warned that the number of deaths and injuries could still increase. He invited “any country” to send help and donations.

International Response

The United Nations has announced it is sending aid to Southeast Asia and has set aside $5 million for relief efforts.
US President Donald Trump said he had spoken with Myanmar officials and confirmed that America would provide support. He stated, “We’re going to be helping.”

Myanmar’s government reported a shortage of blood in the worst-hit areas. Though previous governments were slow to accept foreign aid, Min Aung Hlaing assured that they are now ready to receive it.

India Sends Relief Supplies

India is sending over 15 tonnes of relief supplies to Myanmar. The aid includes:

• Tents

• Sleeping bags

• Food and water purifiers

• Hygiene kits

• Essential medicines

The supplies will be flown in by an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft from Air Force Station Hindon.

Impact Felt in China

The earthquake was also felt in China, especially in the Yunnan and Sichuan provinces. The city of Ruili reported damage, while in Mangshi, the shaking was so strong that people couldn’t stand.

Aftershocks Continue

Late on Friday night, a 4.2-magnitude aftershock struck Myanmar at 11:56 pm local time. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) confirmed the tremor occurred 10 km deep, making further aftershocks more likely.

Damage and Rescue Operations

The city of Mandalay, home to around 1.5 million people, suffered severe damage. Rescue teams are working hard to free monks trapped in the collapsed Phaya Taung Monastery.

Global Reactions

Amnesty International highlighted that this disaster hit Myanmar at a difficult time, as the country was already struggling with displaced people and reduced US aid under the Trump administration.

Pope Francis, who is recovering from double pneumonia, offered prayers for the victims in Myanmar and Thailand. The Vatican released a statement saying the pope is praying for the many lives lost and the survivors.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said she had asked government agencies to prepare for aftershocks and provide help. However, she did not mention any further casualties.

Rescue efforts continue as more survivors are being pulled from the rubble, but officials warn that the death toll could still increase.