A powerful magnitude 7.9 earthquake originating in Myanmar caused a multi-story building under construction in central Bangkok to collapse on March 28, resulting in multiple fatalities and leaving dozens missing. The tremor, one of the strongest recorded in the region this year, sent shockwaves across the Thai capital, as high-rise buildings swayed and residents evacuated into the streets.
Rescue teams are racing against time to locate survivors trapped under the rubble of the collapsed structure. Local authorities confirmed that 81 people remain unaccounted for, while the exact number of casualties is yet to be determined. Emergency responders have warned that aftershocks and unstable debris could complicate operations.
The incident underscores regional seismic risks, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas where high-density construction is common. Analysts note that while Thailand is not traditionally prone to major earthquakes, cross-border geological activity can amplify vulnerabilities in cities like Bangkok.
