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Bangkok High-Rises Evacuated Following Myanmar Earthquake Aftershocks
Bangkok, Thailand – Multiple high-rise buildings in the Thai capital were emptied as a precaution on Monday, triggered by apparent aftershocks stemming from a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake that devastated neighboring Myanmar three days prior. The seismic event led to building evacuations across Bangkok, underscoring concerns about regional seismic activity.
Myanmar Earthquake Devastation
Tragically, the death toll in Myanmar has climbed to at least 1,700 individuals, with state television reporting approximately 3,400 others injured. Search and rescue operations remain critical in both Myanmar and Thailand as numerous people are still unaccounted for.
Potential for Increased Casualties
Authorities have cautioned that the number of fatalities and injuries could escalate significantly. This grim forecast is attributed to the earthquake’s impact on densely populated areas and the structural fragility of numerous buildings in the affected regions.
Aftershocks Felt Across Region
While the U.S. Geological Survey has not documented any new major seismic events, aftershocks from the initial earthquake continue to be felt throughout the region, causing ongoing unease.
Eyewitness Accounts from Bangkok
“I experienced the tremor, although it was considerably weaker compared to Friday’s earthquake,” recounted an office employee in Bangkok’s Sathorn district in conversation with dpa news agency. “I believe the authorities are simply exercising heightened caution at this time,” the individual added.
Precautionary Evacuations
The office worker, along with scores of co-workers, gathered outside the Tisco Tower office complex, one of the buildings evacuated.
Buildings Impacted by Evacuation Order
As a preventative measure, several other tall structures were also evacuated. These include the One Bangkok retail center, the Criminal Court building, and various government administrative centers, according to reports from the Khaosod newspaper and on-the-scene observers.
Emergency Services Response
The sound of sirens from emergency vehicles resonated across the city as first responders remained on alert.