The death toll from a devastating earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand continues to rise, with estimates suggesting that fatalities could exceed 100,000. The earthquake, which struck near Mandalay, in the center of Myanmar, on Friday, measured at 7.7 on the Richter scale and was felt in neighboring nations as well. As of Saturday morning, the confirmed death toll stood at over 1,000 with over 2,300 people injured. The difficulty of movement in the country, exacerbated by a civil war, has raised fears that the number of fatalities could increase significantly.
The earthquake struck at midday local time on Friday near Mandalay, followed by several aftershocks, including one measuring a strong 6.4 magnitude. These aftershocks toppled buildings, bridges, and buckled roads, causing widespread destruction. The International Federation of the Red Cross in Myanmar estimates that more than 18 million people live within the affected area and many will be without safe shelter, access to clean water, or reliable healthcare. Myanmar declared a state of emergency across the six worst-affected regions, while neighboring Thailand also reported casualties and missing persons.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that there was a 24% chance of the total fatalities ranging from 1,000 to 10,000, a 35% possibility of fatalities between 10,000 and 100,000, and a 32% chance of the death toll exceeding 100,000. The majority of buildings in the affected areas are vulnerable to earthquakes, with structures made of materials such as metal, timber, and unreinforced brick masonry construction. The lack of infrastructure and machinery in the country has made rescue efforts challenging, with survivors forced to dig through rubble with their bare hands to save those trapped.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, crews are working to repair damaged roads in the capital Naypyidaw, while essential services like electricity, phone, and internet remain down. The civil war that has plagued the country since 2021 has further hindered the response to the natural disaster. Despite the challenges, international rescue teams have been deployed to Myanmar after a rare plea for help from the country’s military-led government. Countries like China have sent rescue teams to assist in the search and rescue efforts, with the focus on saving survivors trapped under collapsed buildings.
The USGS has warned of the probability of high casualties and extensive damage in the affected areas, highlighting the widespread disaster caused by the earthquake. Seismologists have emphasized the vulnerability of the buildings in the region and the potential disastrous consequences of a large earthquake in densely populated areas. Myanmar’s junta chief has issued a rare appeal for international aid, signaling a shift from previous military regimes that have shunned foreign assistance despite major natural disasters. The race against time continues for rescue workers as they strive to save survivors buried under the rubble and provide relief to those affected by the earthquake.
