NAYPYIDAW: The death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar and parts of Thailand has surged to 1,644, with more than 3,400 people injured, Myanmar’s government confirmed on Saturday.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which rattled central Myanmar on Friday afternoon, was followed by a strong 6.7-magnitude aftershock, causing widespread destruction across the region.
The epicenter, located northwest of Sagaing, triggered severe damage, particularly in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, where entire buildings collapsed, roads were buckled, and critical infrastructure, including bridges and airports, sustained heavy damage.
At least 139 people remain missing, according to official reports. Mandalay, home to 1.7 million people, was among the worst-hit areas, with Buddhist pagodas and monasteries crumbling. The historic Mahamuni Buddha Temple was reduced to rubble, while the Ava Bridge and Mandalay Palace suffered significant structural damage.
Rescue teams are continuing efforts to locate survivors, but authorities warn that the death toll could rise further. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) estimates that fatalities could exceed 10,000.
Meanwhile, in Thailand, emergency teams are working to recover victims trapped inside a collapsed 33-storey building in Bangkok. At least nine people have been confirmed dead, while 47 remain trapped.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has activated its emergency management system and is coordinating medical assistance. WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris warned that the disaster poses a major threat to life and health, particularly in Myanmar, where millions were already struggling due to ongoing conflict and displacement.
With power, phone, and internet services down in many parts of Myanmar, relief operations are facing serious challenges.
France has evacuated its diplomatic premises in Bangkok, while Malaysia, Iran, and Indonesia have pledged additional humanitarian support to assist in the ongoing crisis.
