7.7-Magnitude Quake Strikes Myanmar, Strong Tremors in Bangkok, 43 Missing

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, sending strong tremors across Bangkok. Authorities report 43 people missing as rescue operations intensify. The quake's impact is being assessed, with concerns over damage and aftershocks. Emergency teams are mobilized to assist affected areas. Stay updated on this developing situation. #Earthquake #BreakingNews

According to the United States Geological Survey, the epicenters were located 16 and 18 kilometers from the city of Sagaing, which lies approximately 250 kilometers from Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw.

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 in magnitude, followed by a 6.8-magnitude aftershock, struck central Myanmar at 12:50 PM (local time) on Friday. The United States Geological Survey reported that the epicenter was 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing at a depth of 10 kilometers. As of now, there have been no confirmed reports of casualties.

No tsunami alert has been issued.

The tremors were felt as far as northern Thailand, where some metro and rail services were temporarily halted in Bangkok. The quake was also detected in China’s Yunnan province, according to Beijing’s earthquake monitoring agency.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation. Meanwhile, the China Earthquake Networks Center reported that the tremor in Yunnan registered a magnitude of 7.9.

Dramatic footage circulating on X captured the moment buildings shook in Bangkok and other cities, sending people into a panic. "I heard it... I was asleep in my house, and then I ran as fast as I could in my pajamas out of the building," said Duangjai, a resident of Chiang Mai, a popular tourist destination, in an interview with AFP.

One alarming video showed water from an infinity pool cascading over its edge. Another clip depicted a small residential pool splashing violently, creating waves that resembled mini-tsunamis. Yet another shocking video showed an under-construction skyscraper collapsing completely. According to the Open Source Intelligence Monitor on X, at least 40 workers have been reported missing. The extent of the damage in affected areas of Myanmar remains unclear.

Reports indicate that the old Sagaing Bridge over the Irrawaddy River, along with several residential structures, has collapsed. Images from Mandalay, located about 24 kilometers from Sagaing, suggest that some individuals may be trapped under the rubble.

Myanmar is prone to seismic activity, with six significant earthquakes of magnitude 7.0 or higher occurring between 1930 and 1956 along the Sagaing Fault, which runs north to south through the country.

In 2016, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck the historic city of Bagan, killing three people and causing extensive damage to temple spires and ancient walls at the renowned tourist site.

The country, which faces ongoing economic struggles, has a fragile healthcare system, particularly in its rural regions.

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Source: ndtv‍