Fri Mar 28 07:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Devastating Earthquake Strikes Myanmar, Triggers Building Collapse in Bangkok

**Yangon, Myanmar/Bangkok, Thailand –** A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, resulting in at least 20 confirmed deaths and widespread damage. The quake, whose epicenter was located approximately 17 kilometers from Mandalay, was felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand, and even parts of China. A subsequent 6.4 magnitude aftershock further compounded the devastation.

The earthquake triggered the collapse of a high-rise building under construction in Bangkok, killing at least three and leaving approximately 90 people missing, according to Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Bangkok city hall declared the capital a disaster area and placed the governor in charge of disaster response. Rescue operations are underway in both Myanmar and Bangkok, with seven people already rescued from the collapsed building in Thailand. However, concerns remain about the number of workers trapped in the rubble.

In Myanmar, the military junta declared a state of emergency in six regions and states, including Naypyitaw and Mandalay, pledging to conduct rescue operations and provide humanitarian aid. Initial reports suggest significant damage in central Myanmar, with the collapse of several buildings across multiple cities and towns, including damage to public infrastructure like an expressway. The Myanmar National Airlines cancelled some flights following the quake. Bangkok’s subway and rapid transit system were also temporarily shut down.

The International Federation of the Red Cross has raised concerns about the structural integrity of large-scale dams in Myanmar given the extent of the damage. Eyewitnesses in Myanmar described scenes of panic and devastation, with reports of fatalities occurring immediately following the initial tremors.

The full extent of the damage and casualties is still being assessed, but the earthquake has undoubtedly left a trail of destruction across Myanmar and caused significant disruption in neighboring Thailand. The United Nations Office on Humanitarian Affairs is gathering information on the needs for humanitarian aid in Myanmar.

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