Myanmar, March 28, 2025: A massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Southeast Asia on Friday, causing widespread devastation in Myanmar and Thailand. The powerful tremors resulted in multiple fatalities, the collapse of buildings and bridges, and widespread panic across the region. Myanmar’s ruling military declared a state of emergency in several areas as rescue operations intensified.
The earthquake, which struck at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles), had its epicenter just 17.2 km from Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. The quake was followed by a strong aftershock, further compounding the destruction. At least three people were killed in the town of Taungoo when a mosque partially collapsed, while a hotel collapse in Aung Ban left two dead and 20 injured, according to local media reports. In Mandalay, a five-story building crumbled before the eyes of terrified residents, while images circulating on social media showed severe damage to landmarks, including a collapsed clock tower and a damaged section of Mandalay Palace’s historic walls.
In Thailand, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt confirmed three deaths due to the quake. The tremors sent people running onto the streets, including hotel guests in bathrobes and swimwear as water gushed from an elevated pool at a luxury hotel. The earthquake also caused the collapse of a skyscraper under construction in Bangkok, killing at least one person and trapping dozens under the rubble. Emergency responders worked through the wreckage to rescue survivors, while the Stock Exchange of Thailand suspended all trading activities for the afternoon.
Myanmar’s state media reported the collapse of multiple buildings, as well as railway and road bridges on the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway. The junta announced it would launch swift inquiries and humanitarian aid efforts to assist affected communities. However, the country’s ongoing civil conflict and international isolation have raised concerns about the effectiveness of relief efforts.
The earthquake’s tremors were also felt in China’s Yunnan province, though no casualties were reported there.
Pakistan expressed deep grief over the devastating earthquake, extending solidarity with Myanmar, Thailand, and other affected nations. The Foreign Office issued a statement offering prayers for the victims and their families, while also commending emergency responders for their bravery in the ongoing rescue efforts. Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to supporting those affected in this difficult time.
Rescue operations are underway, but with aftershocks expected, authorities in both Myanmar and Thailand remain on high alert as they assess the full scale of the disaster.
