Terrifying Aftermath of Major Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand

Residents recount harrowing experiences following a powerful earthquake that led to collapsed buildings and widespread panic across Myanmar and parts of Thailand, with emergency services struggling to assess damage.

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck on Friday, sending shockwaves through Myanmar and neighboring Thailand, leading to widespread devastation and panic as residents described the terrifying moments of the disaster. In Myanmar's largest city, Yangon, eyewitness accounts highlight the intensity of the tremors lasting around four minutes. One anonymous resident recounted waking from a nap to the violent shaking and receiving alarming messages reflecting the quake's far-reaching impact across the nation.

The tremors did not just confine themselves to Myanmar; they were felt in Thailand and reached as far as China. Reports indicate that a skyscraper under construction in Bangkok collapsed, trapping dozens of workers inside. Local residents rushed onto the streets as their buildings shook, with water splashing from rooftop pools amidst the chaos.

Sirinya Nakuta, who was home with her children during the earthquake, described panicking as items fell from above, leading her to flee. Meanwhile, Worapat Sukthai, a police chief in Bang Sue district, expressed despair upon arriving at the collapse site, hearing cries for help from those trapped beneath the rubble. With hundreds feared injured, the need for rescue efforts is becoming critical.

As the scale of the earthquake's devastation became clear, Myanmar's officials declared a "mass casualty area" at the Nay Pyi Taw General Hospital. The ruling military junta, having faced intense criticism since its 2021 coup, is now beseeching the international community for humanitarian assistance in light of the disaster.

Information access remains a challenge in the military-controlled country, with internet services disrupted and communication lines down. In Thailand, people reported suspending services like trains and metros as the tremors wreaked havoc on infrastructure. Deborah Punmachet, a restaurant patron during the quake, recalled the sudden shock of her chair tipping over as she was checking her phone.

Social media posted pictures from Mandalay, another major city in Myanmar, revealing collapsed historical structures and damaged roads. The United States Geological Survey has issued a stern warning of significant casualties and extensive damage, and while the exact death toll is still uncertain, estimates indicate it could rise into the thousands.