A massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, causing widespread destruction across the country and beyond. The quake, which hit near Mandalay, was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers, making it especially dangerous. It was felt across Southeast Asia, with reports of shaking in Thailand, Bangladesh, India, and China.

The military government of Myanmar has confirmed that more than 1,000 people have died, while nearly 2,000 others have been injured. However, experts warn that the true death toll may be far higher. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) estimates that the number of fatalities could exceed 10,000, especially as more reports come in from remote areas.

Neighboring Thailand has also suffered losses, with at least ten deaths reported, most of them in the Bangkok area. Authorities in the region fear that the number of casualties may continue to rise as search efforts progress.

Race to Save Survivors as Chaos Unfolds

In Myanmar, rescue operations are in full swing, but the response has been slow due to limited resources. Many areas have been cut off due to damaged roads and collapsed buildings. Survivors and volunteers are working desperately, often using bare hands to clear rubble and find those trapped underneath.

In Mandalay, the worst-hit area, volunteers say they can still hear cries for help from under fallen structures. The lack of proper rescue equipment makes it difficult to reach those in need, and time is running out.

In Thailand, the earthquake caused a high-rise building to collapse in Bangkok, trapping at least 30 workers inside. Emergency crews are racing against time to pull survivors from the rubble. Reports say at least 15 of the trapped workers are still showing signs of life.

Rescue teams are using drones, heavy machinery, and specially trained dogs to locate survivors. The next 48 hours are critical, as those trapped face the risk of dehydration, injuries, and aftershocks.

International Community Steps Up Aid Efforts

Governments worldwide have responded quickly, sending aid and rescue teams to help the affected regions.

• China has pledged emergency aid worth €13 million and has already sent rescue teams.
• Russia has deployed 120 personnel, including medics and search dogs, to assist in search and rescue efforts.
• The U.S., India, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan have all announced relief packages and humanitarian support.
• The ASEAN alliance has committed to providing long-term support to help Myanmar recover from the disaster.

In Bangkok, over 200 buildings are being inspected for structural damage. Two residential blocks have been evacuated due to safety concerns. Public parks and community centers have been opened overnight to house those left homeless by the quake.

The Sagaing Fault: A Major Seismic Threat

Experts believe that the earthquake occurred along the Sagaing Fault, a major tectonic boundary where the Indian and Eurasian plates collide. The two plates move at a rate of 18 millimeters per year, building up stress over time.

According to geophysicist Fabrice Cotton, the Sagaing Fault is one of the most active fault lines in Southeast Asia. Scientists are warning that strong aftershocks could occur in the coming days, posing further risks to already damaged buildings.

Myanmar has experienced devastating earthquakes in the past, including the 2016 tremor that killed dozens and the 2012 earthquake that left hundreds dead. However, the scale of destruction from this latest quake is among the worst in recent history.

The Human Cost and Uncertain Future

The earthquake has left thousands of people displaced, with many sleeping in the open due to the fear of aftershocks. Access to clean water, food, and medical supplies remains a major concern.

Hospitals in Mandalay and other affected regions are struggling to handle the large number of injured people. Doctors are treating patients in makeshift tents due to overcrowding inside hospital buildings.

The full impact of the disaster will take weeks, if not months, to assess. However, it is clear that Myanmar and its neighboring countries face a long and difficult recovery process.