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Devastating earthquake strikes Thailand and Myanmar, trapping dozens in Bangkok skyscraper collapse

Friday 28 - 09:32 By: Zahouani Ilham

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A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and Thailand on Friday, causing widespread destruction and trapping dozens in a collapsed high-rise under construction in Bangkok. The Thai prime minister declared a state of emergency in response to the disaster.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake hit northwest of Sagaing in Myanmar at a shallow depth. A 6.4-magnitude aftershock followed shortly after, worsening the damage.

In Bangkok, a 30-story government building under construction crumbled within seconds, leaving 43 workers trapped beneath debris. Rescuers scrambled to locate survivors amid the wreckage of twisted metal and concrete. Deputy police chief Worapat Sukthai described the desperate cries for help from those trapped, warning that the number of injuries could be substantial.

In Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, the quake caused ceilings to collapse inside the National Museum, forcing terrified visitors and staff to flee. Roads cracked and buckled, blocking access to the city's main hospital, which was quickly overwhelmed with casualties. Injured patients were treated outside as paramedics struggled to move through heavy traffic.

The tremors were felt as far as China’s Yunnan province. In northern Thailand, frightened residents ran into the streets, with many describing it as the most intense earthquake they had ever experienced.

Bangkok authorities suspended metro and light rail services for safety reasons. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was on an official visit to Phuket, held an emergency meeting to address the crisis.

Myanmar, located along the active Sagaing Fault, has a history of devastating earthquakes. Experts warn that rapid urban development and weak infrastructure make cities particularly vulnerable to such disasters. The country’s already fragile healthcare system now faces immense strain as rescue operations continue.