A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, March 28, 2025, causing significant damage and widespread panic across the region. The tremor occurred at approximately 12:50 pm local time, with its epicenter near Mandalay, which has a population of about 1.5 million.
The quake’s shallow depth of 10 kilometers intensified its impact, leading to several buildings and infrastructure collapse in Mandalay.
In the immediate aftermath, reports emerged of buildings reduced to rubble and debris scattered across the streets of Mandalay. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as residents fled their homes and workplaces to seek safety. One resident recounted, “We all ran out of the house as everything started shaking. I witnessed a five-story building collapse in front of my eyes.”
The earthquake’s effects were not confined to Myanmar alone. In neighboring Thailand, the tremors were strongly felt in the capital city of Bangkok, located approximately 1,000 kilometers south of the epicenter.
The shaking caused high-rise buildings to sway, prompting hundreds of people to evacuate onto the streets in panic. In the Chatuchak area of Bangkok, a 30-story building under construction collapsed, trapping at least 43 workers under the debris.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared a state of emergency and convened an urgent meeting to assess the situation and coordinate rescue efforts. Emergency services were dispatched to affected areas, and residents were advised to remain outdoors due to the possibility of aftershocks.
The earthquake also impacted other neighboring regions. Strong tremors were felt in China’s southwestern Yunnan province, though no casualties were immediately reported. Additionally, mild tremors were experienced in parts of India, including Kolkata and Imphal, causing residents to evacuate buildings as a precaution.
This seismic event highlights the region’s vulnerability to earthquakes, particularly along the Sagaing Fault, which runs north to south through central Myanmar. Historically, this area has experienced several significant earthquakes, including a 6.8-magnitude quake in 2016 that damaged numerous temples in the ancient city of Bagan.
As rescue and relief operations continue, authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and assist those affected. Residents in the impacted areas are urged to remain vigilant and follow official guidance to ensure their safety after this devastating earthquake.