BANGKOK, Thailand (AP) A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Thailand and neighboring Myanmar on Friday, March 28, 2025. The earthquake, along with an aftershock measuring 6.4, led to significant destruction, including the collapse of a high-rise building under construction in Bangkok and damage to historical structures in Myanmar.
The earthquake occurred in the early afternoon, prompting a large number of residents to evacuate buildings and seek shelter from the intense heat outside. The greater Bangkok area, home to over 17 million people, saw people rushing to safety as fear and panic spread through the city. Although the quake's epicenter was located in Myanmar, the effects were felt strongly in Bangkok.
In response to the disaster, Myanmar's military-run government declared a state of emergency across six regions, including the capital Naypyitaw and Mandalay, which is close to the quake's epicenter. Reports from Myanmar indicated damage to key locations such as the former royal palace in Mandalay and a 90-year-old bridge in the Sagaing region, which partially collapsed as a result of the tremors.
Emerging reports also detailed casualties from the building collapse in Bangkok, where Thai emergency responders have confirmed the deaths of two individuals. An undisclosed number of individuals may still be trapped under the rubble of the fallen construction site. Rescue worker Songwut Wangpon indicated that seven survivors have been located amidst the debris of the high-rise building, which resulted in significant dust clouds and chaos during its collapse.
Witnesses, including tourists, described the panic that ensued. Paul Vincent, a visitor from England, recounted his experience during the quake, mentioning the terrifying sight of a swaying high-rise and the screams of people fleeing the area. Many took refuge in nearby Lumphini Park, filling sidewalks as they sought safety from the aftershocks. The atmosphere was fraught with anxiety, as individuals gathered in groups, some visibly distressed or in tears as they checked their mobile devices.
In China, the earthquake was also felt across Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, leading to reports of injuries and damage in the city of Ruili, which lies on the border with Myanmar. Local media shared videos showing debris scattered across streets and individuals being transported to hospitals. A resident from Mangshi, about 100 kilometers from Ruili, described the intensity of the shaking, noting that it was strong enough to knock people off their feet.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed the nation following the earthquake, assuring the public that relevant agencies are mobilizing to provide necessary support and prepare for potential aftershocks. While she did not disclose specific casualty figures, she urged calm among the populace amid the chaos.
As authorities classify Bangkok as a disaster area, the focus now shifts to recovery and relief efforts in both Thailand and Myanmar. The ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar presents challenges for effective relief operations in regions that may be hard to reach. Despite the dire situation, the immediate need remains the safety and recovery of those affected by the seismic events.
