Major Earthquake Strikes Central Myanmar
A powerful earthquake registering a magnitude of 7.7 struck central Myanmar on Friday, sending shockwaves that reverberated across a vast expanse of Southeast Asia. The disaster has already resulted in numerous fatalities and extensive damage, with reports emerging from areas hundreds of kilometers away from the epicenter.
The military junta in Myanmar reported that at least 144 individuals have lost their lives while 732 others have sustained injuries. As rescue efforts continue, it is feared that the death toll may rise further, especially as wounded individuals begin to reach hospitals in Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city.
The earthquake had devastating effects, including the collapse of a skyscraper under construction in Bangkok, Thailand, which tragically led to the deaths of at least seven people, with dozens more reported missing. Additionally, buildings in China experienced noticeable tremors, and bridges and homes in far-flung locations such as Vietnam also felt the impact.
Myanmar is currently embroiled in a civil conflict that has left approximately 20 million people without adequate food or shelter. The military government’s censorship has hampered the flow of information from the epicenter of this calamity; however, details about the scale of the devastation are gradually emerging from Thailand and neighboring countries.
Key Information to Know:
- Where was the epicenter?
- Which countries have been affected?
- What is the current death toll and extent of damages?
- What assistance is available for the victims?
