Myanmar Earthquake: Tremors Felt Across Southeast Asia, Significant Damage Reported
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, felt in Thailand and India. Tremors caused significant disruption, including a building collapse in Bangkok. A major hospital in Naypyidaw was declared a mass casualty area. India and local authorities are ready to assist while reports indicate no major casualties in the affected regions.
On Friday, a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, with its epicenter located 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing and at a depth of 10 kilometers. This event occurred around 12:50 PM local time. Tremors were felt extensively, reaching northern Thailand and even parts of India, prompting residents in places like Bangkok and Chiang Mai to flee buildings.
In Bangkok, reports indicated the suspension of metro and light rail services due to the earthquakes. Additionally, the situation prompted some buildings to sway, and there were unverified visuals of a structure collapsing in the Chatuchak district. Notably, tremors were also felt significantly in Vietnam and China’s Yunnan province.
In Myanmar, a major hospital in Naypyidaw was declared a “mass casualty area” as many injured individuals were seen receiving treatment outside the emergency department. Fortunately, no immediate reports of significant property damage or fatalities surfaced in cities like Kolkata and Imphal in India, although mild tremors were reported there.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the earthquake’s aftermath. He assured that India would offer all possible assistance to Myanmar and Thailand, and instructed officials to be on standby to respond to potential needs from both governments.
In Bangladesh, the tremors from the earthquake were reported at a magnitude of 7.3, affecting areas including Dhaka and Chattogram, although no casualties have been reported thus far. The tremors reached as far as Bangladesh just minutes after the initial earthquake.
This earthquake is noted to be one of the strongest globally since 2023, and a significant aftershock measuring 6.4 in magnitude was felt in the same region shortly after the main quake. No tsunami alert has been issued following these events, despite widespread fears and significant damage across both Myanmar and Thailand due to the earthquake.
The 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar is a significant seismic event that caused extensive tremors felt across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, India, and Bangladesh. Emergency measures were activated in response to reports of casualties and building collapses. Governments are now assessing the situation and coordinating assistance to address the impact of this disaster.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
