Powerful earthquakes strike Thailand and Myanmar, shaking the region

Photo: Reuters

On Friday, a powerful earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing serious damage to roads and buildings. The tremor also forced people to run into the streets in neighboring Thailand.

Earthquake Details

The earthquake, which measured 7.7 in magnitude, hit northwest of Sagaing city in the afternoon, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). It was followed by a strong 6.4-magnitude aftershock just minutes later. The quake occurred at a shallow depth, making its impact more intense.

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Panic and Damage in Myanmar

In Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, the earthquake caused roads to crack and large chunks of ceilings to fall from buildings. Journalists who were at the National Museum during the quake described how the building shook violently. Pieces of the ceiling and walls broke off, while staff members ran outside in fear. Some were crying, while others frantically called their families. The ground shook heavily for about 30 seconds before it finally stopped.

Fear Spreads to Thailand

The earthquake was also felt in northern Thailand, including the popular tourist city of Chiang Mai. Duangjai, a resident, shared her experience. She said she was sleeping when the quake hit. "I ran as fast as I could in my pajamas out of the building," she told reporters.

In Chiang Mai, Sai, a 76-year-old man, was working at a minimart when the tremor began. "I quickly rushed out of the shop along with other customers," he said. He added that it was the strongest earthquake he had ever experienced.

Impact on Bangkok

The quake even caused damage in Bangkok, Thailand’s capital. Some buildings were damaged, and metro and light rail services were temporarily stopped for safety reasons.

Thai PM Holds Emergency Meeting

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was on an official visit to Phuket, rushed back to hold an urgent meeting. She announced this on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Tremors Felt in China

The earthquake’s force reached as far as China’s Yunnan province. Beijing’s earthquake agency reported that the tremor there measured 7.9 in magnitude.

Myanmar’s History of Earthquakes

Earthquakes are not uncommon in Myanmar. Between 1930 and 1956, the country experienced six major quakes of 7.0 magnitude or higher along the Sagaing Fault, which runs from north to south through the center of the country.

In 2016, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck the ancient city of Bagan, killing three people. The quake also destroyed historic temples and monuments.

Vulnerable Infrastructure

Experts say Myanmar’s rapid but poorly planned urban development makes its cities more vulnerable to earthquakes. The country’s weak infrastructure and lack of proper safety measures put its people at greater risk. Additionally, Myanmar’s healthcare system, especially in rural areas, is already fragile, making it harder to respond to such disasters.

No Casualties Reported Yet

As of now, no deaths or serious injuries have been reported, but the earthquakes caused panic in cities across northern Thailand and even down to Bangkok. Authorities continue to assess the damage and monitor for further aftershocks.