Massive Earthquakes Shake Myanmar, Panic Spreads to Bangkok

Myanmar (The Uttam Hindu) : ​A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025 causing widespread panic and significant structural damage across the region. The tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand approximately 1,000 kilometers away, leading to mass evacuations and the declaration of a state of emergency in the Thai capital.​

Epicenter and Immediate Impact

The earthquake's epicenter was near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. This proximity to the surface intensified the shaking, resulting in the collapse of multiple buildings in Mandalay, including damage to the historic former royal palace and vital infrastructure such as bridges and highways. In the capital city, Naypyidaw, roads buckled, and ceilings partially collapsed, causing injuries and significant property damage. ​

Aftershocks and Ongoing Tremors

Shortly after the initial quake, a 6.4-magnitude aftershock further rattled the affected areas, compounding the damage and heightening fears among residents. Authorities have cautioned that additional aftershocks are possible and have advised residents to remain vigilant and prepared for further seismic activity. ​

Impact on Bangkok

In Bangkok, the tremors led to the collapse of a 30-story skyscraper under construction, trapping at least 43 workers beneath the debris. Emergency services are engaged in a frantic search-and-rescue operation to locate and assist those trapped. The city's skyline was visibly affected, with high-rise buildings swaying and debris falling onto the streets below. Hundreds of residents evacuated into the streets, with some office towers reportedly moving for minutes during the tremors. In response, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an emergency meeting to coordinate disaster response efforts and declared a state of emergency in Bangkok to facilitate rescue and relief operations. ​

Regional Effects

The earthquake's impact extended beyond Myanmar and Thailand, with tremors felt in southwestern China, including Yunnan province. In the border city of Ruili, houses were damaged, and injuries were reported. The shaking was also experienced in parts of Laos and Vietnam, causing residents to evacuate buildings as a precautionary measure. ​

Casualties and Damage Assessment

As of now, reports indicate at least 20 fatalities in Myanmar, with numerous injuries and significant infrastructural damage. In Bangkok, while the collapse of the under-construction skyscraper has led to injuries and entrapments, no fatalities have been confirmed yet. Authorities are conducting thorough assessments to determine the full extent of the damage and to ensure the safety of residents. ​

Response and Relief Efforts

Emergency response teams in both Myanmar and Thailand are actively engaged in search-and-rescue operations, providing medical assistance to the injured, and assessing structural damages. International aid organizations have expressed readiness to assist in relief efforts. Residents in affected areas are advised to remain cautious, follow official instructions, and prepare for potential aftershocks.