A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck the Sagaing Region of Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread destruction and triggering a state of emergency in both Myanmar and neighboring Thailand. The epicenter was located near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, and the quake’s impact was felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand, approximately 1,000 kilometers south of the epicenter.
Impact in Myanmar
The earthquake resulted in significant damage in Myanmar, with reports of collapsed buildings in Mandalay and a major hospital in Naypyidaw being overwhelmed with casualties. The military-led government declared a state of emergency across six regions, including the capital Naypyidaw and Mandalay, due to the severity of the situation. However, detailed information on casualties and damage remains limited due to the ongoing civil conflict and restricted access to many areas.
Impact in Thailand
In Thailand, the earthquake caused the collapse of a 30-story skyscraper under construction in Bangkok, trapping dozens of workers. At least three people were confirmed dead, and rescue operations are ongoing to locate those still missing beneath the debris. The Thai government declared Bangkok an “emergency zone” following the disaster, with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convening an urgent meeting to assess the situation.
Regional Response
The earthquake’s effects were also felt in southwestern China, where tremors were reported in the Yunnan province. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with rescue efforts underway in both Myanmar and Thailand.
