Over 694 Killed, 1670 Injured In Devastating Myanmar Earthquake
On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck central Myanmar, primarily affecting the Mandalay region. The earthquake, with an epicenter approximately 17.2 kilometers from Mandalay, resulted in significant destruction and a tragic loss of life.
As of March 29, the death toll has reached at least 694 in Myanmar, with over 1,670 reported injuries. The Myanmar military junta has warned that the numbers may continue to rise as rescue operations are ongoing and more information becomes available. Eyewitness accounts describe widespread devastation in Mandalay, where numerous buildings collapsed, including residential structures and places of worship. Reports indicate that over 50 mosques were destroyed, contributing to the high casualty figures.
In addition to the fatalities in Myanmar, the earthquake also impacted neighboring Thailand, where a construction site in Bangkok collapsed, resulting in at least 10 deaths and numerous injuries. The Thai government has declared a state of emergency in response to the disaster.
The earthquake was followed by a strong aftershock measuring 6.4, further complicating rescue efforts. Hospitals in affected areas are reportedly overwhelmed with casualties, and there is an urgent need for medical supplies and blood donations. The United Nations has allocated $5 million for relief efforts as international support is being solicited by Myanmar’s junta leader.
Myanmar is situated in a seismically active zone, making it susceptible to earthquakes. This event marks one of the most powerful quakes to hit the region since 1912 and is considered the deadliest since Myanmar gained independence in 1948. The geological composition of urban areas like Mandalay has heightened vulnerability to seismic activity, leading to severe structural failures during this quake.
As rescue operations continue and assessments of damage are conducted, local authorities are grappling with the extensive humanitarian needs arising from this disaster.
