The death toll from a powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand on Friday (March 28) has risen to more than 1,600 victims. The earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 7.7, had its epicenter in central Myanmar, also known as Burma, where the majority of casualties have been reported. According to Myanmar’s military government, 1,644 people have been confirmed dead, with nearly 140 still missing.
The quake has caused widespread devastation, knocking down buildings, bridges, and highways. In Mandalay, Burma's second-largest city, survivors have been digging through rubble with their bare hands to rescue those trapped, as heavy machinery is scarce. The situation is compounded by ongoing civil conflict, which has already displaced millions and complicated relief efforts.
In Thailand, the earthquake caused a 30-story building under construction in Bangkok to collapse, killing at least ten people. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated that the country has "returned to normalcy," but rescue operations continue.
International aid is beginning to arrive in Burma, with countries like China and India sending rescue teams and supplies. However, the country's military junta, which seized power in 2021, faces logistical challenges and international sanctions that may hinder the distribution of aid.
The United States has offered assistance, with President Donald Trump describing the earthquake as "terrible" and assuring that the U.S. will help. Despite this, the response has been muted due to recent cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which traditionally plays a significant role in global disaster relief.
Rescue workers continue to search for survivors in both countries, but the full extent of the disaster may not be known for months. The U.S. Geological Survey suggests that the death toll could surpass 10,000, given the scale of the devastation.