A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and Thailand, resulting in a state of emergency in Bangkok and structural damages including a collapsed building. While no casualties have been reported, significant evaluation and rescue efforts are underway. The quake’s epicenter in the conflict-affected Sagaing region complicates recovery efforts.
On Friday, a powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.7 struck Myanmar and was felt across Bangkok, prompting an immediate state of emergency. The quake’s epicenter was located in the Sagaing region of Myanmar, already impacted by a prolonged civil conflict. No reports of casualties have emerged; however, significant damage was incurred, including the collapse of a high-rise building under construction in Bangkok, which trapped 43 workers.
Thailand’s authorities reported widespread tremors, particularly within Bangkok, leading to the suspension of trading on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. In reaction to the earthquake, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an emergency meeting to evaluate the disaster’s repercussions and coordinate response efforts. Alarms in high-rise buildings triggered evacuations as residents were prompted to leave their apartments cautiously.
Structurally, the earthquake was recorded as a shallow tremor at approximately 10 kilometers deep. Destruction was visible on social media, with videos documenting water from rooftop pools cascading over in tall buildings, emphasizing the quake’s intensity. Tremors were also reportedly felt in parts of China’s Yunnan province, demonstrating the widespread effects of the seismic event.
Myanmar continues to face challenges with its ongoing civil strife, rendering the nation incapable of managing such natural catastrophes effectively. The unstable political landscape hinders recovery efforts, further complicating the potential assistance in the aftermath of the earthquake.
Despite the magnitude of the earthquake, immediate casualties have not been confirmed, providing a brief respite while assessments and rescue operations are still ongoing. The resilience of the cities and preparedness of the emergency response will play crucial roles as both nations address the disaster’s impact.
In conclusion, the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar and felt across Bangkok led to a declaration of emergency and significant structural damage, including the collapse of a high-rise building. As authorities assess the aftermath, the challenges faced by Myanmar due to civil unrest complicate recovery efforts. The earthquake’s tremors were felt even in neighboring regions, highlighting its substantial reach.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
