A powerful earthquake registering 7.7 on the Richter scale struck central Myanmar at precisely 12:50 PM local time on Friday, followed by an aftershock measuring 6.8. According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake's epicenter was located 16 kilometers to the northwest of Sagaing city, occurring at a depth of 10 kilometers. Local media has reported 20 fatalities in Myanmar as a result of the disaster.
Additionally, casualties have emerged from a mosque in Mandalay city that collapsed while worshippers were praying inside. Ongoing rescue operations are underway, and it is likely that the death toll will rise.
The military government of Myanmar has proclaimed a state of 'emergency' and is seeking international assistance.
Tremors were felt as far away as northern Thailand, prompting the suspension of some metro and rail services in Bangkok. In response to the situation, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an "urgent meeting" to discuss the crisis and announced a state of 'emergency' in the capital.
Strong tremors were also detected in China's Yunnan province, where the China Earthquake Networks Center recorded a magnitude of 7.9. Additionally, light tremors were noted in Kolkata, Bengal, parts of Manipur, as well as in Dhaka and Chattogram, Bangladesh, as reported by the news agency PTI.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi indicated that India is prepared to provide any required support. He expressed, “Praying for the safety and health of everyone,” in a post on X. “... I have instructed our officials to remain ready.”
Disturbing footage on X revealed buildings swaying in Bangkok and other cities, with individuals fleeing into the streets in fear. A resident from the well-known tourist destination Chiang Mai, Duangjai, shared with AFP, “I experienced it... I was resting in my home and then dashed out in my pajamas as far as I could go.”
One especially shocking video captured the sight of water spilling over the edge of an infinity pool.
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