BANGKOK/MANDALAY – The devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, continues to claim lives, with the confirmed death toll rising to over 1,900 in Myanmar and at least 23 fatalities reported in Thailand, including 18 in Bangkok. Rescuers are still searching through the rubble for survivors, as aftershocks hamper relief efforts in the hardest-hit areas.
Myanmar’s Worst Earthquake in Over a Century
The quake, which struck Myanmar’s central Sagaing region near Mandalay, is the deadliest natural disaster to hit the conflict-torn nation in years. Authorities report at least 3,900 people injured and over 350 still missing, with officials warning that the actual toll may take weeks to emerge. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has predicted the final death toll could exceed 10,000, given the widespread devastation.
The epicenter near Mandalay, home to 1.5 million people and multiple historic temple complexes, suffered catastrophic damage. Bridges and buildings collapsed, cutting off entire towns, particularly after the destruction of a key bridge over the Irrawaddy River. Power outages and disrupted communications have left rescue operations in chaos, forcing emergency teams to work under extreme conditions.
Bangkok in Shock as Buildings Collapse
Though the epicenter was in Myanmar, the earthquake’s impact extended far beyond its borders. Bangkok, more than 800 miles away, experienced violent tremors, leading to the collapse of an under-construction high-rise, killing 11 people and leaving dozens trapped. The Thai government has confirmed seven additional deaths across the capital, with at least 80 people still missing as search operations continue.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has mobilized emergency response teams and assured both Thai citizens and the millions of tourists in the country that authorities are prioritizing safety measures and relief efforts.
International Aid Arrives Amidst Civil War Challenges
Myanmar’s military junta, facing mounting pressure, has made a rare international appeal for aid, leading to search and rescue teams from the UN, Red Cross, and neighboring nations arriving in affected areas. However, the country’s ongoing civil war since 2021 has already crippled healthcare infrastructure, leaving millions vulnerable.
Marie Manrique, Myanmar coordinator for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), warned that the next few days are critical, saying: “There’s only a small window of opportunity to save those trapped under the rubble.”
Aftershocks Continue, Raising Fears of Further Destruction
The USGS has recorded multiple aftershocks, the largest at 6.7-magnitude, further destabilizing buildings and complicating rescue efforts. Experts warn that strong aftershocks may persist for weeks, adding to the risk of further collapses and landslides.
Airports and Travel Disruptions
Several regional airports in Myanmar remain closed, with flights suspended or rerouted due to infrastructure damage. Thailand’s Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports in Bangkok are fully operational, but authorities are urging travelers to check for delays.
Uncertain Future as Region Reels from Disaster
As Myanmar struggles to recover, the global humanitarian response is intensifying, but challenges remain due to ongoing conflict, limited infrastructure, and a lack of resources. Aid workers warn that the true scale of destruction is still unfolding, with thousands feared buried under rubble.
With fears that the death toll will continue to rise, this earthquake marks one of Asia’s deadliest disasters in over a century—a tragedy that will reshape the region for years to come.
Source: Reuters, USGS, IFRC, Thai and Myanmar government agencies