Additional Coverage:
- Massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake rocks Thailand, Burma, collapsing buildings and killing more than 150 (foxnews.com)
A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Thailand and Burma (Myanmar) on Friday, causing widespread devastation and a significant loss of life. The quake, centered in central Burma, triggered building collapses, damaged infrastructure, and left over 150 people dead across the two nations.
In Bangkok, dramatic footage captured the collapse of a 33-story apartment building under construction. The building crumbled into a cloud of dust, sending debris scattering across city streets.
At least eight people died in the incident, and as many as 90 are reported missing, according to Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The city has been declared a disaster area to streamline aid and emergency response efforts.
Burma bore the brunt of the earthquake’s impact, with the death toll exceeding 144, and at least 730 injured. Head of the military government, Senior Gen.
Min Aung Hlaing, addressed the nation in a televised speech, warning that the casualty count is expected to rise. Photos and videos emerging from hard-hit cities depict the extent of the damage.
The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Thailand and Burma, with tremors felt as far away as India and China. One aftershock registered a magnitude of 6.4, prompting authorities in Bangkok to urge evacuees to remain outside.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported the quake’s depth at a relatively shallow 6.2 miles.
In Bangkok, residents described the terrifying moments as the city shook. One office worker, April Kanichawanakul, said the experience, her first earthquake, left her feeling dizzy. A tourist from Scotland, Fraser Morton, recounted the panic inside a shopping mall as people screamed and scrambled for safety.
The earthquake caused damage to structures across Burma. In Mandalay, parts of the former royal palace sustained damage, while a 90-year-old bridge collapsed in the Sagaing region.
Sections of the highway connecting Mandalay and Yangon were also affected. In Naypyitaw, the capital, religious shrines crumbled, and homes were damaged.
Across the border in Tibet, at least 188 people were reported injured. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an emergency meeting to assess the full impact of the disaster.