In brief
A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and Thailand, resulting in collapsed buildings and numerous casualties. Residents shared their terrifying experiences, while the military junta in Myanmar called for international assistance amidst widespread destruction.
Residents in Myanmar and Thailand are grappling with shock and devastation following a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that occurred on Friday, causing buildings to collapse and leaving communities shattered. The quake's tremors were felt across a wide area, including the Thai capital of Bangkok, where a 30-storey construction site succumbed to the force, trapping workers beneath the debris.An anonymous resident of Yangon described the experience as "intense," noting that the tremors lasted approximately four minutes. He shared with the BBC how he woke from a nap, only to find his building violently swaying. "I was receiving messages from friends and realizing that it wasn’t just in Yangon, but many places across the country were affected," he recounted.Witness accounts detailed harrowing moments during the quake. Sirinya Nakuta, who was inside her apartment with her children, described a chaotic scene where items were crashing down from above, prompting her to urgently evacuate. Meanwhile, local authorities in Bangkok reported disturbing sounds of people trapped under the fallen structures, with officials describing the efforts of rescuers trying to reach those in need.As the extent of the disaster became clearer, Myanmar's government declared a "mass casualty area" at Nay Pyi Taw General Hospital, where overwhelmed medical staff were forced to treat patients outside, using improvised equipment. The junta, which has ruled Myanmar since the coup in 2021, made an unusual appeal for international help, announcing a state of emergency in six regions and calling on the global community for humanitarian aid.Internet access remains sporadic in Myanmar, hampering communication efforts as aid organizations struggle to reach affected areas. In Thailand, residents evacuated buildings as tremors caused panic in the streets, affecting transport services and leaving many in fear.Reports indicate extensive damage in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, where historic structures and crucial infrastructure have crumbled. The United States Geological Survey has warned of probable high casualties and extensive destruction, with early estimates suggesting the death toll could be in the thousands. The nation now faces the daunting task of responding to this tragic event as communities come together amidst the aftermath.
