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At least 144 people have been killed and 732 injured in Myanmar alone
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Myanmar - A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar near Mandalay on the morning of March 27, 2025, sending tremors across Thailand, India, and China. Officials have confirmed at least 150 fatalities, with fears that the death toll could rise into the thousands.
At least 144 people have been killed and 732 injured in Myanmar alone. In Bangkok, Thailand, at least eight people were killed when a high-rise under construction collapsed. The extent of destruction across the region is still unfolding, and Myanmar's government has appealed for emergency blood donations in the hardest-hit areas. 
Worst earthquake in nearly two centuries
The earthquake is the strongest to hit Thailand and Myanmar since the 1839 Ava Earthquake, which measured up to 8.3 in magnitude and claimed hundreds of lives.
While Thailand was impacted by the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, which was triggered by a 9.25-magnitude earthquake, today's tremor marks the most powerful inland quake the region has seen in modern times.
Destruction and chaos in Myanmar
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar’s military government, addressed the nation in a televised speech, warning that fatalities and injuries are expected to rise.
Scientists from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimate that total fatalities could range between 10,000 and 100,000, citing the PAGER (Prompt Assessment of Global Earthquakes for Response) forecast.
The shallow tremor struck central Myanmar at 13:20 local time (6:50 GMT), followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock minutes later. Buildings across Mandalay collapsed, including the Ma Soe Yane monastery, one of the largest in the city. The former royal palace was also heavily damaged.
A dam burst in Mandalay, causing water levels to rise in lowland areas. Rescue workers from Moe Saydanar Charity Group reported retrieving at least 60 bodies from monasteries and buildings in Pyinmana, near the capital Naypyidaw.
A major hospital in Naypyidaw declared a mass casualty emergency, struggling to accommodate the overwhelming number of patients. A doctor told AFP, "I have never seen anything like this before. We are trying to handle the situation, but I am exhausted."
The Myanmar military junta, already engaged in a fierce battle against insurgent groups, faces major challenges in conducting rescue and relief operations.
Deadly impact in Thailand
In Bangkok, rescuers are searching through the rubble of a collapsed high-rise in Bang Sue district. At least three people have been killed and 90 remain missing, according to Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The building, constructed by China Railway Construction Corporation, was intended for the Thai government auditor general.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as a mushroom cloud of dust and debris engulfed the area. Startled residents evacuated hotels and high-rise apartments, many wearing bathrobes and swimwear, after rooftop pools spilled over from the force of the quake. Chelsea King, a British expat in Bangkok, told MailOnline, "I was in shock. The street was chaotic, with people running, carrying pets and children. It felt like something out of a disaster film."
Widespread Destruction Across the Region
International response and aid efforts
The European Union has pledged assistance, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating, "Heartbreaking scenes from Myanmar and Thailand. Europe’s Copernicus satellites are already assisting first responders. We are ready to provide more support."
The World Health Organization (WHO) has activated its emergency management system, mobilizing trauma injury supplies from its Dubai hub. WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris stated, "This is a massive event with a huge threat to life. We are focusing on sending trauma kits, essential medicines, and emergency supplies."
As rescue efforts continue, governments and international agencies brace for a rising death toll and widespread devastation.
Source: Daily Mail
