Strong Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand, Triggers Panic and Damage
Earthquake struck Myanmar and Thailand early Friday morning, sending shockwaves through major cities and triggering widespread panic. The quake, which registered a magnitude of 6.8, was felt across the region, causing structural damage and prompting emergency responses from authorities.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located in eastern Myanmar, near the Thai border, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The tremors were strong enough to be felt in cities such as Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw in Myanmar, as well as Chiang Mai and Bangkok in Thailand.
Residents described the terrifying moments when buildings swayed, furniture toppled, and alarms blared. Many people rushed out of their homes and offices in fear, as aftershocks continued to rattle the region.
“I was asleep when the shaking started. It was so strong that I had to run outside with my family. Everyone was screaming,” said a resident of Chiang Mai.
Preliminary reports indicate at least five fatalities in Myanmar, with dozens more injured. In Thailand, several injuries have been reported, though no deaths have been confirmed so far. Emergency services are working to assess the full extent of the damage.
Structural damage has been reported in several areas, with cracks appearing in roads and buildings. Authorities have temporarily closed schools, offices, and public spaces in the worst-affected regions as engineers assess infrastructure stability.
The Myanmar and Thai governments have activated their emergency response teams to assist those affected. Myanmar’s authorities have deployed rescue teams to affected areas, while Thailand’s disaster management agencies are on high alert.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of Thailand assured citizens that aid and emergency services are being mobilized swiftly. “We are closely monitoring the situation and providing assistance to those in need,” he said in a public address.
International organizations, including the Red Cross and the United Nations, have pledged support. ASEAN’s humanitarian assistance team is also coordinating relief efforts.
Geologists warn that aftershocks could continue in the coming days, and residents have been urged to stay alert. The Thai Meteorological Department has advised the public to prepare emergency kits and follow safety guidelines.
Myanmar sits on the Sagaing Fault, one of Southeast Asia’s most active fault lines. Experts have long warned of the region’s vulnerability to major seismic activity, making preparedness crucial.
The earthquake has sparked a massive response on social media, with users sharing their experiences and supporting affected communities. Hashtags such as Myanmar Earthquake and Thailand Quake have been trending, with people expressing their fears and hopes for a quick recovery.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation, urging residents to remain cautious. As rescue and recovery efforts progress, the focus will be on restoring stability and ensuring the safety of those affected.
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