BREAKING: Over 140 Killed As Earthquake, Tremors Strike Myanmar, Thailand

An earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday and caused widespread devastation and casualties. According to state-run media, MRTV, at least 144 people have been killed and 732 injured so far.

Similarly, tremors in Thailand led to the collapse of buildings and infrastructure across the region.

In Thailand, rescue teams in Bangkok searched through the rubble of a collapsed tower block that had been under construction. Authorities reported five fatalities and 117 people missing due to the collapse.

The worst-hit area appeared to be Mandalay, Myanmar’s ancient royal capital and a major Buddhist centre, with a population of about 1.5 million people.

In a telegram post on Friday, MRTV confirmed the growing death toll and extensive damage in the region.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake in Myanmar registered a magnitude of 7.7 at a depth of 10 kilometres (6.2 miles). The epicentre was located approximately 17 kilometres from Mandalay.

The quake destroyed buildings, bridges, and roads, leaving residents in fear and seeking refuge outside their homes.

“We all ran out of the house as everything started shaking. I witnessed a five-story building collapse in front of my eyes. Everyone in my town is out on the road, afraid to go back inside,” a Mandalay resident told Reuters.

Rescue efforts are to be challenging. A worker from the Moe Saydanar charity group reported retrieving at least 60 bodies from monasteries and buildings in Pyinmana, near Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, adding that more victims were trapped under the debris.

Myanmar’s military junta, already facing ongoing insurgent conflicts, is expected to face additional hurdles in coordinating rescue and relief operations.

According to Reuters, the situation remains dire as emergency teams work tirelessly to locate survivors and provide aid to those affected by the catastrophe.