A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar, shaking the region and causing devastation in multiple countries.
The quake, which struck on Friday, left at least 144 people dead and hundreds injured, as buildings crumbled and chaos unfolded.
The tremors were felt far beyond Myanmar, reaching Thailand, China, and India. In Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, the destruction was severe. Historic structures, including the Ma Soe Yane monastery, suffered heavy damage. Roads cracked, ceilings collapsed, and terrified residents fled into the streets seeking safety.
In Thailand, the quake sparked panic, especially in Bangkok. People rushed out of buildings as the ground shook violently. A skyscraper in the city collapsed, killing at least eight people, while over 100 others remain missing. Tourists and locals described scenes of fear and confusion as they struggled to understand what was happening.
Myanmar’s government quickly declared a state of emergency in six regions, including the capital Naypyidaw and Mandalay. Hospitals are overwhelmed with injured victims, and authorities have issued urgent calls for blood donations to help those in critical condition.
Rescue efforts are underway as emergency teams dig through rubble, searching for survivors. The international community has begun offering assistance, with aid organizations preparing food, water, and shelter for those displaced. The true scale of the disaster is still unfolding, as officials continue assessing the damage and coordinating relief operations.