Myanmar Earthquake: Death Toll Rises to 694, Over 1,670 Injured; Rescue Operations Continue

Mandalay, Myanmar – A catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, claiming at least 694 lives and injuring more than 1,670 people. The epicenter was located near Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city, which is now grappling with widespread destruction. Just 11 minutes after the initial quake, a 6.4-magnitude aftershock further compounded the devastation, leaving emergency services overwhelmed. Authorities have warned that the death toll is likely to rise as rescue operations continue in the affected regions.

Escalating Crisis and Rescue Operations

Myanmar’s military leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, addressed the nation in a televised statement, urgently appealing for international assistance to bolster relief efforts. “We have accepted support from the AHA Center and India to aid our response,” he confirmed. Major General Zaw Min Tun reported that hospitals in Naypyidaw, Mandalay, and Sagaing are struggling to accommodate the influx of injured victims, with medical resources stretched to their limits. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has estimated that the death toll could surpass 1,000, given the quake’s severity and the region’s dense population.

International Aid Mobilizes Swiftly

In a gesture of solidarity, India has pledged over 15 tonnes of humanitarian aid, including tents, sleeping bags, food supplies, water purifiers, hygiene kits, and essential medicines. The relief materials are being airlifted via an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft from Hindon Air Force Station, ensuring rapid delivery to the disaster-stricken areas.

The United Nations has also responded promptly, with Secretary-General António Guterres announcing the allocation of $5 million to support Myanmar’s relief efforts. U.S. President Donald Trump affirmed his administration’s commitment, stating, “We’re going to be helping.” Meanwhile, Pope Francis, despite his recent hospitalization, expressed his prayers for the victims, with the Vatican releasing a statement of support for those affected in Myanmar and Thailand.

Regional Impact: Tremors Felt in China and Thailand

The earthquake’s effects reverberated far beyond Myanmar, with tremors felt in neighboring China and Thailand. In China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, buildings sustained significant damage. Reports from Mangshi described the quake’s intensity as so severe that residents struggled to remain standing.

In Thailand, the disaster took a tragic toll in Bangkok, where a 33-story high-rise under construction collapsed, killing at least six people and injuring several others. Rescue teams are working tirelessly amidst clouds of dust and debris to search for survivors. Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, issued a public advisory urging citizens to remain vigilant, as authorities continue to monitor the potential for aftershocks.

Mandalay in Ruins: A City Struggles to Recover

Mandalay, a cultural and economic hub with a population of 1.5 million, has been left in ruins. Collapsed buildings, cracked roads, and overwhelmed emergency services paint a grim picture of the city’s current state. Among the most poignant scenes, rescue teams are working to free Buddhist monks trapped in the rubble of the historic Phaya Taung Monastery, a cherished cultural landmark now reduced to debris.

Humanitarian Challenges Amplified

Humanitarian organizations, including Amnesty International, have highlighted the dire timing of this disaster. Myanmar is already grappling with internal displacement and reduced international aid, particularly from the U.S., which has strained the country’s capacity to respond to crises. This earthquake is expected to exacerbate these challenges, placing additional pressure on an already fragile humanitarian landscape.

A Seismically Vulnerable Region

Myanmar lies in a seismically active zone, making it prone to earthquakes. However, the scale of this disaster, affecting major population centers like Mandalay, underscores the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and international cooperation. As rescue efforts continue and global support pours in, the focus remains on saving lives and providing immediate relief to those in need.