The death toll from the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand has risen to over 1,600, with thousands more injured and missing. Rescuers are racing against time, digging through the rubble of collapsed buildings in a desperate search for survivors.
The earthquake, which hit central Myanmar on Friday afternoon, caused widespread destruction, especially in Mandalay, where buildings, bridges, and roads were severely damaged. An aftershock of 6.7 magnitudes followed minutes later, worsening the crisis.
Authorities in Myanmar confirmed at least 1,644 deaths, with 139 people still missing. Bangkok reported at least 10 fatalities, while a 30-storey skyscraper under construction collapsed, leaving 79 workers unaccounted for.
In Mandalay, rescuers pulled a woman from the debris of a 12-storey apartment block, where over 90 people are believed to be trapped. Many residents are sleeping in the streets, fearing further building collapses.
Myanmar’s military junta, known for rejecting foreign aid, has made a rare appeal for international assistance. India has already sent initial aid, while China pledged $13.8 million and dispatched over 80 rescuers.
The disaster comes as Myanmar grapples with an ongoing civil war, leaving its healthcare and rescue services critically underprepared. Damage to Mandalay Airport could further complicate relief efforts.
In Bangkok, sniffer dogs and drones are helping locate survivors in the collapsed skyscraper, while authorities deploy engineers to inspect over 2,000 reported damaged buildings. With aftershocks expected, the region remains on high alert.
