7.7 magnitude earthquake hits Southeast Asia, mainly impacting Myanmar and Thailand.
A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread destruction and panic in the region. The quake’s epicenter was near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, with a shallow depth of just 10 km.¹
As the earth shook, buildings crumbled in Mandalay, trapping people inside. A tea shop and a mosque were among the structures that collapsed, with eyewitnesses describing the scene as “very bad”.² Emergency teams quickly sprang into action, searching for casualties and assessing the damage.
The earthquake’s impact extended far beyond Myanmar’s borders, with tremors felt in neighboring Thailand and China. In Bangkok, buildings swayed violently, sending people running into the streets in panic. The stock exchange was forced to halt trading, and medical teams rushed to treat those overwhelmed by the ordeal.
Myanmar’s vulnerability to natural disasters is exacerbated by its pre-existing challenges, including civil conflict, economic instability, and environmental degradation. The country’s location on the eastern margin of the Indo-Eurasian collision system makes it highly susceptible to seismic events.
As the region struggles to come to terms with the disaster, concerns are growing about the potential humanitarian crisis that may unfold. Restrictions on humanitarian access, imposed by Myanmar’s military junta, may hinder aid delivery and recovery efforts.
The international community is urged to provide support to Myanmar in its time of need, while also acknowledging the complexities of the situation. As the world watches, it is clear that the road to recovery will be long and challenging.
Key Developments:
- Earthquake Details: 7.7-magnitude earthquake, 10 km depth, epicenter near Mandalay
- Damage and Casualties: Widespread destruction, buildings collapsed, people trapped, unknown number of casualties
- Regional Impact: Tremors felt in Thailand and China, panic in Bangkok, stock exchange halted
- Humanitarian Concerns: Restrictions on humanitarian access, potential crisis unfolding
