Devastating Earthquake in Myanmar: Over 1,000 Dead, Thousands Injured

On March 28, 2025, Myanmar experienced its most powerful earthquake in over a century. The 7.7-magnitude earthquake, with an epicenter near Mandalay, struck at 12:50 PM local time. The disaster has caused widespread destruction across multiple regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, Shan State, and Naypyidaw. Tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand, and southwestern China.

Impact on Infrastructure and Communities

• Mandalay Region: Mandalay suffered catastrophic damage to infrastructure and historical landmarks. Buildings such as the Mandalay Palace and Mahamuni Pagoda sustained significant structural damage. A dam collapse in the region caused flooding, while sections of the Mandalay-Yangon highway were destroyed. In Maha Aungmye Township, a tea shop collapse trapped around 70 people, while other buildings in Pyigyidagun Township also collapsed, leaving many trapped or dead.
• Sagaing Region: Nearly 50 fatalities were reported in Sagaing Township, where 80% of structures were destroyed. The Ava Bridge partially collapsed, and historic temples in Chaung-U Township were severely damaged.
• Kyaukse and Pyawbwe Townships: These areas reported over 30 fatalities and hundreds of injuries. Religious buildings and homes suffered extensive damage.
• Thailand: In Bangkok, a high-rise construction site collapsed due to strong tremors, killing at least nine people and leaving over 100 missing. Structural inspections are underway for high-rise buildings across the city.

Casualties and Emergency Response

As of March 29, Myanmar’s State Administration Council (SAC) confirmed 1,002 deaths, 2,376 injuries, and 30 missing persons. Rescue operations are ongoing in affected areas with efforts focused on transporting injured individuals to hospitals and clearing debris from collapsed structures.

In Thailand, emergency zones have been declared in Bangkok due to structural risks posed by the earthquake. International aid organizations like CARE and IRC are assessing humanitarian needs and preparing emergency responses to provide shelter, food, clean water, and medical assistance to displaced communities.

Statements from Authorities

Min Aung Hlaing, chairman of Myanmar’s SAC, emphasized the urgency of rescue operations and the need for essential services such as food and accommodation for victims. CARE Myanmar Country Director Arif Noor highlighted the compounded challenges faced by communities already struggling with humanitarian crises before the earthquake.

Safety Recommendations

Authorities have issued safety guidelines for residents in affected areas:

• Avoid entering damaged buildings until they are inspected by engineers.
• Stay away from flood-prone areas caused by dam collapses.
• Follow evacuation orders promptly.
• Stock up on emergency supplies such as water, food, flashlights, and first-aid kits.
• Monitor official announcements for updates on aftershocks.

Weather Alerts

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) issued a red alert for fatalities and economic losses due to the shallow depth (10 km) of the quake. Aftershocks measuring up to magnitude 6.7 have been recorded.

Sources

Below are clickable links to sources for further information:

• CARE Statement on Myanmar Earthquake
• Scientists Explain Why Myanmar Quake Was So Deadly
• Devastating Earthquake Claims Over 1,000 Lives