7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand, Multiple Casualties Reported, Buildings and Bridges Collapse
Myanmar and Thailand were rocked by a powerful earthquake this afternoon, resulting in multiple reported casualties.
According to foreign news agencies, the earthquake caused buildings and bridges to collapse in both countries, while an under-construction building in Bangkok also collapsed, raising fears of significant loss of life.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the earthquake had a magnitude of 7.7 and a depth of 10 kilometers. Its epicenter was located 17.2 kilometers from the city of Mandalay, Myanmar. Strong aftershocks were also felt following the initial quake.
Authorities confirmed that in the city of Taungoo, Myanmar, a mosque partially collapsed, killing at least three people. Local media reported that in Aung Ban, a hotel collapsed, resulting in at least two deaths and 20 injuries.
State media reported that buildings in five cities and towns were destroyed, while two bridges on the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway also collapsed.
Myanmar's military government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas.
