BANGKOK, March 28, 2025 — A powerful earthquake struck central Myanmar today, causing significant tremors felt across Bangkok and prompting widespread evacuations in the Thai capital.
Epicenter and Magnitude
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.7 and occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The epicenter was located approximately 17.2 kilometers from Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city with a population of about 1.2 million.
Impact in Bangkok
In Bangkok, a bustling metropolis home to over 17 million people, the tremors caused high-rise buildings to sway, leading to panic among residents and office workers. Many evacuated onto the streets as a precaution. Notably, a building under construction in the Chatuchak district collapsed, enveloping the area in a cloud of dust and causing injuries to several individuals who were subsequently rescued from the debris.
Government Response
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation and coordinate response efforts. Authorities are currently evaluating the extent of the damage and monitoring for potential aftershocks.
Regional Effects
The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar and Thailand. In Myanmar, the tremor damaged religious sites and residential structures, though no immediate casualties were reported. The shaking was also felt in neighboring countries, including China, India, and Vietnam, causing concern among residents.
Seismological Context
Myanmar is situated along the active Sagaing Fault, a major tectonic boundary between the Burma and Sunda plates. This fault has been the source of several significant earthquakes in the past, including events in 1931 (magnitude 7.5), 1946 (magnitudes 7.3 and 7.7), and 1956 (magnitude 7.0).
Safety Recommendations
Residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities. In the event of aftershocks, individuals should seek shelter in safe locations and avoid using elevators.