In brief
The quake's aftermath has left people in shock and urging for immediate international aid.
Residents in Myanmar and Thailand are grappling with the shock and devastation following a massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck on Friday, causing widespread destruction. The earthquake, which lasted up to four minutes, was felt as far away as China, collapsing structures and leaving many in peril. In Yangon, one resident recalled being jolted awake by the violent shaking, realizing the severity as warnings flooded in from friends across the country. The tremors toppled buildings and caused major damage in both nations, including a partial collapse of a 30-storey construction in Bangkok that left dozens trapped beneath the debris. Eyewitness Sirinya Nakuta described the horror from her apartment with her children as items fell around them, prompting an urgent evacuation. Meanwhile, Worapat Sukthai, deputy police chief of Bang Sue district, reported the desperate calls for help coming from trapped victims, speculating hundreds may be injured and further details on casualties are pending.Myanmar's government has declared a "mass casualty area" at Nay Pyi Taw General Hospital, struggling to cope with the influx of victims as patients line up outside. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing made an unprecedented plea for international aid as the nation was declared under a state of emergency in six regions. While the regime rarely reaches out for external assistance, the scale of devastation has compelled officials to seek urgent humanitarian support, amidst tight internet and communication restrictions in the country.In Bangkok, residents were quick to react as chaos unfolded; many fled their locations, believing it was a passing tremor until realizing the quake's intensity. Reports from journalists noted that it had been many years since Thailand experienced such a strong earthquake. Images on social media depict significant destruction in Myanmar, with the historic royal palace suffering damages and vital infrastructure impacted.The United States Geological Survey has issued a "red alert," warning of potential high casualties and extensive damage, with preliminary estimates indicating the death toll could reach into the thousands. As communities begin to take stock of the devastation, the urgent need for aid and support continues to grow.
