7.7 Magnitude Earthquake in Myanmar

There have been two large earthquakes in central Myanmar. The first was recorded at 06:20 GMT with a magnitude of 7.7. Ten minutes later, an aftershock with a magnitude of 6.4 was recorded. Both were near Mandalay. Tremors have also been reported more than a thousand miles away in Thailand and China.

The tremor’s epicenter was in a city in Burma called Seran, in Mandalay, Myanmar. It is about 100 kilometers north of the capital, Naypyidaw. This was a 7.7-magnitude earthquake, striking at 12:50 local time in the afternoon, around 06:50 GMT. It was a shallow earthquake—about 10 km deep—which is considered shallow. Tremors were felt across the region, including in China and Thailand.

Reports from news sources state that at least 43 workers are trapped in a collapsed skyscraper in Bangkok. This has been confirmed by news agencies. Reports indicate that Bangkok, a city with numerous high-rise buildings, experienced significant shaking, leading to many evacuating onto the streets.

The collapse of a building in Bangkok, where at least 43 workers are reportedly trapped, is the latest development following the earthquake. Earthquakes of this magnitude often lead to further structural damage, and initial reports typically focus on the scale before more detailed information emerges regarding casualties and infrastructure impact.

According to medics in Bangkok, 43 workers are currently trapped in the collapsed building. With Bangkok being a city known for its skyscrapers and dense urban population, residents are familiar with earthquake precautions and emergency drills. Many buildings in the region are constructed to withstand seismic activity, but the severity of the tremors has led to evacuations and structural damage.

In Myanmar, additional reports suggest that a large bridge near Mandalay, close to the epicenter, has collapsed into the Irrawaddy River. Information from Myanmar is expected to take longer to emerge, making it difficult to fully assess the scale of the damage at this stage. However, the earthquake struck approximately 100 kilometers north of Naypyidaw, affecting areas outside the capital.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, this was classified as a large earthquake, and its shallow depth of 10 km is expected to contribute to a significant impact. Shallow earthquakes often result in stronger surface-level shaking, increasing the likelihood of damage to buildings and infrastructure.

In Thailand, government officials have convened an emergency meeting to determine the next steps following the disaster. The country has experienced earthquakes before, but the magnitude and impact of this event are particularly severe.

Further reports news sources indicate that a 30-story building under construction in Bangkok has collapsed. It remains unclear whether this is the same building where the 43 workers are trapped or if it is a separate incident. The fact that workers were present suggests that the affected structure may have been under construction at the time of the earthquake.

Once completed, many buildings in earthquake-prone areas are designed to withstand tremors. However, if a building is still under construction, it may not yet have the necessary reinforcements. Additionally, surrounding structures may be more vulnerable to collapse.

Residents in Bangkok reported feeling the buildings sway. The shaking was described as "dizzying," indicating the strength of the tremors. Many have left their offices and homes, taking to the streets as a precaution.

The government in Myanmar is expected to coordinate an emergency response to assess the damage in the northwest of the country, near the city of Sagine, close to Mandalay, which is about 100 km north of Naypyidaw.

Reports from journalists in Naypyidaw indicate that roads have buckled due to the force of the tremors, and chunks have fallen from ceilings. Reports also indicate structural damage in Myanmar.

Eyewitness reports suggest that this earthquake has caused significant panic across the region. Residents in Thailand, Myanmar, and even parts of China have described feeling strong shaking. The epicenter’s location and the earthquake’s magnitude suggest that aftershocks could continue, potentially causing further damage.

Ongoing Emergency Response

Authorities in both Myanmar and Thailand have mobilized emergency response teams. Rescue operations in Bangkok are underway to reach the trapped workers. Structural engineers and firefighters are assessing the risks of further collapses, while medical teams are on standby to provide aid to any survivors who may be pulled from the rubble.

In Myanmar, emergency services are prioritizing heavily affected areas. The extent of damage in rural regions remains unclear due to limited communication networks. Villages near the epicenter are at high risk, as buildings in these areas are often less structurally reinforced compared to urban centers. Humanitarian organizations are closely monitoring the situation and preparing relief efforts, including food, medical aid, and temporary shelter for displaced residents.

Economic and Infrastructure Impact

The impact of this earthquake is expected to have serious economic consequences. In Myanmar, transportation routes are disrupted, affecting the movement of goods and essential supplies. Damaged roads and bridges will likely hinder rescue operations and make it difficult for aid to reach affected communities.

In Thailand, businesses and financial centers in Bangkok may experience temporary shutdowns as authorities assess structural safety. Large-scale infrastructure damage could lead to economic slowdowns, particularly in sectors such as construction, trade, and tourism.

Aftershocks and Future Risks

Seismologists warn that strong aftershocks could continue in the coming days. The risk of secondary collapses remains high, particularly for damaged buildings and infrastructure. Residents are advised to remain cautious and follow official safety guidelines.

The earthquake has also raised concerns about the region’s overall preparedness for such disasters. While Bangkok has strict building regulations, the collapse of a 30-story construction site raises questions about whether earthquake safety measures were adequately followed. Experts emphasize the need for improved seismic monitoring and stricter enforcement of building codes in high-risk areas.

International Reactions

Neighboring countries, including China and India, have expressed their willingness to provide assistance if required. International humanitarian organizations are monitoring the situation and may deploy teams to aid in disaster response efforts.

As more details emerge, governments and relief agencies will continue working to assess the full extent of the disaster and provide support to affected communities.

This earthquake has caused widespread damage and disruption across Myanmar and Thailand. The full impact is still unfolding, and emergency teams are racing against time to rescue those trapped and provide aid to the affected populations. The next few days will be critical as authorities assess the extent of destruction and coordinate recovery efforts.