The death toll from Myanmar’s devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake has surged to approximately 1,700, with more than 3,400 injured and over 300 still missing, as rescue operations intensify across the war-torn nation.
The quake, one of Myanmar’s strongest in a century, struck on Friday, leaving behind widespread destruction and overwhelming hospitals in affected regions.
The country’s military government, led by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, has warned that fatalities could continue to rise as search efforts progress.
The disaster comes amid ongoing civil unrest following the 2021 military coup, which has crippled Myanmar’s infrastructure and health system.
In response to the crisis, international aid has begun pouring in, with India, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Russia sending relief supplies and emergency teams.
The United States has pledged $2 million in humanitarian assistance, with a USAID response team en route.
However, damaged bridges, highways, and railways have slowed relief efforts, while reports indicate that some of the hardest-hit communities remain without government support.
“The destruction has been extensive, and humanitarian needs are growing by the hour,” the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said in a statement.
Hospitals in cities like Mandalay and Naypyitaw are struggling to cope with the influx of injured survivors.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Geological Service predicts the final death toll could exceed 10,000, with economic losses surpassing Myanmar’s annual GDP.
