A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and Thailand on Friday, destroying buildings, bridges, and dams.
In Myanmar, at least 144 people were killed and 730 others injured, with numbers expected to rise.
In Bangkok, Thailand, a 33-story building under construction collapsed, resulting in at least eight deaths.
Details of the Earthquake and Aftermath
The quake occurred at midday near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, followed by a 6.4 magnitude aftershock.
In Myanmar, historic buildings, including the Ma Soe Yane monastery, were damaged; a 90-year-old bridge collapsed, and highways were affected.
In Thailand, residents evacuated high-rise buildings in Bangkok, with the city declared a disaster area.
Local and International Responses
Myanmar’s government declared a state of emergency in six regions, including the capital Naypyitaw and Mandalay.
In Thailand, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pledged all necessary assistance and urged citizens to remain calm.
Pope Francis, convalescing in the Vatican, offered prayers for the earthquake victims in Myanmar and Thailand.
The earthquake was felt in China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, causing injuries and damage in the border city of Ruili.
Other parts of Southeast Asia also reported damage, with rescue efforts and damage assessments ongoing in affected areas.
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