Importance Score: 85 / 100 🟢
Powerful Earthquake Devastates Myanmar and Thailand, Global Figures Respond
A devastating earthquake struck Southeast Asia on March 28, 2025, causing widespread destruction and loss of life across Myanmar and Thailand. The powerful 7.7-magnitude seismic event inflicted catastrophic structural damage and resulted in numerous fatalities in both nations. While Myanmar and Thailand bore the brunt of the impact, neighboring countries including Bangladesh, China, and India also experienced the effects of the tremor.
As world leaders and prominent figures reacted to the unfolding tragedy, Pope Francis, recently discharged from hospital after a period of ill health, was among the first to offer his condolences and support.
“Deeply saddened by the loss of life and extensive devastation caused by the earthquake in Southeast Asia, especially in Myanmar and Thailand, His Holiness Pope Francis offers heartfelt prayers for the souls of the deceased and assures his spiritual closeness to all impacted by this tragedy,” conveyed Cardinal Pietro Parolin in a telegram, as reported by ABC News. “His Holiness further implores that emergency responders are sustained in their efforts to care for the injured and displaced through divine gifts of fortitude and perseverance.”
Below are the latest updates on the evolving situation in Myanmar and Thailand following the earthquake.
7.7 magnitude earthquake hits Southeast Asia, mainly impacting Myanmar and Thailand.
— Pop Base (@PopBase) March 28, 2025
Earthquake Fatality Count Escalates
As of April 3, 2025, the death toll from the earthquake that ravaged Myanmar nearly a week prior has tragically climbed to 3,145. Search and rescue teams are still actively working to recover victims amidst the debris.
Information Minister Maung Maung Ohn revealed at a press conference in Naypyitaw, the capital city, that in addition to the fatalities, 4,589 individuals sustained injuries, and 221 remain missing, according to state broadcaster MRTV.
Initial reports following the earthquake indicated a significantly lower death count of under 200, as per ABC News. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of Myanmar, issued a statement early on, cautioning that the number of casualties was “expected to rise considerably.”
“Numerous buildings have collapsed across affected regions, and rescue operations are currently in progress,” he stated. “I have personally inspected some of the impacted areas to assess the extent of the damage. I urge everyone to unite and offer support to the ongoing rescue efforts.”
Epicenter Location of the Seismic Event
Multiple news sources indicate that the epicenter of the earthquake was situated in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second largest metropolitan area.
Impact on Bangkok: Building Collapse Incident
While Bangkok did not experience a separate earthquake, the city felt the tremors originating from the Mandalay quake. Despite being geographically distant from the epicenter, a skyscraper under construction in Bangkok suffered a catastrophic collapse. Hundreds of construction personnel were present at the site when the building began to crumble and subsequently failed.
The New York Times reported that this was the only structural failure in Bangkok resulting from the earthquake. Preliminary investigations and accounts from workers suggest that the isolated incident may be attributed to deficiencies in construction design and material quality.