A magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck central Myanmar near Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city, on Friday, leaving at least 1,644 dead and 3,408 injured. The death toll surged sharply within hours, with 139 people still missing. The tremor, the strongest globally this year, triggered a state of emergency across multiple regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw.
Regional Ripple Effects
Neighboring countries reported casualties and damage. Thailand recorded 10 fatalities, with Bangkok under a state of emergency. Laos and Vietnam saw high-rise evacuations, while southwest China’s Yunnan Province reported injuries and damaged homes. Bangladesh issued alerts for aftershocks.
International Relief Mobilized
Global aid surged as Myanmar’s humanitarian crisis deepened. The UN allocated $5 million, India dispatched 15 tonnes of supplies, and China sent 82 rescuers and 100 million yuan ($13.8M) in aid. Teams from Yunnan Province joined local efforts, delivering tents, drones, and medical equipment. Russia, Malaysia, and Singapore also contributed support.
