Fri Mar 28 13:21:47 UTC 2025: ## Devastating 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar, Triggers Chaos Across Southeast Asia

**Yangon/Bangkok, March 28, 2025** – A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar Friday afternoon, causing widespread devastation and triggering panic across Southeast Asia. The quake, followed by several strong aftershocks, resulted in at least 23 confirmed deaths, with hundreds injured and fears of a significantly higher death toll as rescue efforts continue.

The epicenter was located northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, at depths ranging from 10 to 30 kilometers. The tremors were felt strongly across the region, reaching as far as northern Thailand, China’s Yunnan province, India’s Manipur state, and Bangladesh.

In Myanmar, the impact has been catastrophic. A hospital in Naypyidaw is reported to be overwhelmed with casualties, possibly becoming a mass casualty area. A mosque collapse in Mandalay during prayer and a fire at a university have also contributed to the rising death toll. The Ava Bridge over the Irrawaddy River and numerous residential buildings have collapsed, trapping dozens. Images show extensive damage to Mandalay airport and a monastery near Taunggyi. Roads between Mandalay and Yangon are damaged, hampering relief efforts. Myanmar’s junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, has declared a state of emergency and appealed for international aid.

Thailand also experienced severe tremors, leading to the suspension of metro and rail services in Bangkok. Three deaths have been confirmed in Bangkok, stemming from a collapsed building under construction in the Chatuchak neighbourhood. At least 84 workers were trapped inside the skyscraper at the time of collapse. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, cutting short a visit to Phuket, declared a state of emergency in Bangkok.

While no fatalities have yet been reported in China, India, or Bangladesh, tremors were felt in these countries as well. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered assistance to the affected nations. European leaders have also pledged aid.

Videos circulating on social media show terrifying scenes of buildings shaking violently and people fleeing in panic across Bangkok and other affected cities. The scale of destruction and the ongoing rescue operations suggest that the death toll is likely to rise. Myanmar’s impoverished medical system, particularly in rural areas, is further complicating relief efforts. The country has a history of significant seismic activity, with several large earthquakes occurring along the Sagaing Fault in the past century.

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