Massive 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar, Over 1,000 Dead

A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar’s Sagaing region on Friday at 12:50 pm (0650 GMT), followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock and smaller tremors. The quake caused destruction across Myanmar and Thailand, with the death toll surpassing 1,000. Myanmar, already struggling due to its ongoing civil war, faced severe challenges in rescue operations.  

The tremors were felt in India, China, Laos, and Cambodia. In Thailand, 10 people died, mainly due to a high-rise collapse near Bangkok’s Chatuchak market, where nearly 100 workers remain trapped. In Myanmar’s Mandalay, buildings crumbled, and the historic Ava Bridge collapsed into the Irrawaddy River.  

Myanmar’s military junta, facing international isolation, made a rare plea for aid. India was among the first to respond, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledging assistance and dispatching 15 tonnes of relief supplies via the Indian Air Force. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held an emergency meeting, while the Indian embassy in Thailand confirmed no casualties among Indian nationals.  

The United States and European Union also pledged support, with US President Donald Trump assuring aid. Rescue efforts continue as Myanmar struggles with the aftermath of one of its worst natural disasters in recent history.