Devastating 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar, Shaking Southeast Asia
A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, sending shockwaves across the region and causing widespread destruction. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at a depth of about six miles, making it shallow and highly destructive. The epicenter was located just 10 miles northwest of Sagaing, a region densely populated and historically prone to seismic activity. The tremor was felt far beyond Myanmar, with reports of strong shaking in Bangkok, Thailand, nearly 650 miles away.
The sheer force of the earthquake has led to devastating consequences. In Myanmar’s second-largest city, Mandalay, entire buildings crumbled, hospitals were overwhelmed, and infrastructure was severely damaged. A crucial bridge over the Irrawaddy River collapsed, further complicating rescue efforts. The humanitarian crisis is expected to deepen as reports indicate that more than 10,000 people may have lost their lives. However, with Myanmar’s military junta restricting internet access, the true scale of the disaster remains difficult to determine.
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Thailand also felt the impact of the quake. In Bangkok, a 33-story building under construction collapsed, killing at least three people and leaving over 100 missing. The capital’s streets filled with panicked residents, fearful of aftershocks, as authorities declared a state of emergency. Videos circulating on social media captured terrifying moments as skyscrapers swayed, debris rained down, and traffic came to a standstill.
Adding to the chaos, a powerful 6.4-magnitude aftershock struck the region just minutes after the initial earthquake. Experts warn that aftershocks could continue for weeks, further endangering those trapped in the rubble. Southeast Asia rarely experiences earthquakes of this magnitude, making this event one of the most severe in a century. Seismologists are continuing to monitor the situation, and international aid agencies are preparing for large-scale relief efforts.
The tragedy in Myanmar and its neighboring countries is a stark reminder of nature’s unforgiving power. As the death toll rises and the full extent of the destruction unfolds, the world watches and hopes for swift rescue efforts and humanitarian assistance to those in dire need.
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