Two Massive Earthquakes Shakes Myanmar, Tremors Felt in Bangkok
Two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.7 and 6.4 on the Richter scale, struck Myanmar on Friday, causing widespread concern as the iconic Ava Bridge in Mandalay collapsed into the Irrawaddy River. The tremors, originating near Sagaing, were so intense that they rattled Bangkok, nearly 900 km away, sending residents into the streets.
The first earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.7, hit Myanmar at around noon local time, followed 11 minutes later by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock. The epicentre was located near Sagaing, a region known for its seismic activity due to its proximity to the Sagaing Fault. Reports confirmed that several buildings in the area collapsed, amplifying fears of significant damage.
The Ava Bridge, a historic structure built by the British in 1934, succumbed to the violent shaking, plunging into the Irrawaddy River. This bridge, a key link between Ava and Sagaing, had been a symbol of Mandalay’s heritage.
The impact of the quakes extended far beyond Myanmar’s borders. In Bangkok, approximately 900 km from the epicentre, strong tremors shook high-rise buildings, prompting people to evacuate homes and offices. Social media posts described scenes of panic as residents rushed outdoors, though no immediate damage or casualties were reported in the Thai capital.
Thailand’s meteorological department confirmed the tremors but stated that the situation was under close observation. The distance between Sagaing and Bangkok highlights the sheer power of the earthquakes.
In Myanmar, the collapse of the Ava Bridge and multiple buildings near the epicentre signalled significant structural damage. The quakes’ shallow depth amplified their destructive potential, though exact details on casualties remain unclear as authorities assess the situation. Rescue teams have been deployed to the affected areas, particularly around Mandalay and Sagaing.
The Irrawaddy River, a lifeline for the region, now holds the remnants of the fallen bridge, raising concerns about transportation and local connectivity.
A Myanmar disaster management official, speaking anonymously, said, “We are working to gather information on the extent of the damage. Rescue operations are underway, and we urge people to stay cautious.” No official statement has been released yet on the full scope of the disaster.
In Bangkok, a Thai meteorological official noted, “The tremors were felt widely, but so far, we have no reports of harm. We are monitoring for aftershocks.”
Myanmar lies along the seismically active Sagaing Fault, making it vulnerable to earthquakes. The region has a history of powerful tremors, including a 6.8-magnitude quake in 2012 that caused significant damage. Friday’s events mark some of the strongest seismic activity in recent years, raising questions about preparedness and infrastructure resilience.
Bangkok, though farther from major fault lines, has experienced distant tremors before, but the intensity this time caught many by surprise.
As aftershocks continue to rattle the region, authorities in Myanmar and Thailand are on high alert. Emergency teams are racing to assess casualties and damage, particularly in Sagaing and Mandalay. Updates on the situation are expected as rescue efforts progress and more information becomes available.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring safety and restoring stability in the quake-hit areas.
