Casualties Rise After Devastating Earthquake Hits Myanmar and Thailand

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, resulting in 144 deaths and 732 injuries. A secondary quake followed shortly after. Fatalities were evident in Naypyitaw and Sagaing regions, while Thailand reported five dead and 17 injured due to a collapsing building. Rescue efforts are ongoing for those trapped.

Myanmar experienced a devastating earthquake on Friday, with military leaders reporting 144 fatalities and 732 injuries. The numbers are expected to rise as the situation develops. The US Geological Survey recorded a 7.7 magnitude quake at approximately 12:50 p.m. local time near Mandalay, with a subsequent 6.7 magnitude aftershock occurring ten minutes later.

Military leader Min Aung Hlaing revealed that out of the confirmed deaths, 96 occurred in the capital Naypyitaw, while additional fatalities were reported in the Sagaing region. Authorities across Myanmar are closely monitoring the impact of the quake.

In Thailand, the earthquake’s effects included the collapse of a high-rise building under construction in Bangkok, leading to at least five deaths and injuring 17 others. Search and rescue operations are currently underway for around 100 individuals believed to be trapped beneath the debris.

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the collapse site and announced plans for safety inspections of public buildings and a request for similar checks from private buildings in the aftermath of the quake.

The recent earthquake in Myanmar has had severe consequences, with significant loss of life and injuries reported. As rescue efforts continue, the scale of destruction in both Myanmar and Thailand highlights the need for increased safety measures in construction and building inspections. The situation remains fluid, and further updates on casualty figures and recovery efforts are anticipated.

Original Source: www3.nhk.or.jp