YANGON, MYANMAR – A devastating earthquake has struck Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and a rapidly rising death toll. The 7.7 magnitude quake has left at least a thousand people dead, with the number expected to climb as search and rescue operations continue.
Myanmar, already facing significant challenges due to civil unrest and humanitarian issues, now confronts this new disaster. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimates that fatalities could exceed 10,000, intensifying the strain on a nation struggling with severe shortages of food and healthcare. Families across the globe are anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones amid the chaos.
The earthquake’s impact reached beyond Myanmar’s borders, with tremors felt in neighboring Thailand. In Bangkok, the quake caused a swimming pool to overflow, sending water onto the streets and adding to the scenes of turmoil and distress.
Declared a state of emergency, Myanmar is witnessing survivors rushing the injured to hospitals while others dig through the rubble with their bare hands, clinging to hope of finding survivors. The damage has crippled infrastructure, with roads and bridges destroyed, and many seeking refuge at Mandalay’s airport, fearing aftershocks.
In Thailand, the quake caused a 33-story building under construction in Bangkok to collapse, trapping workers in the debris. Emergency responders, assisted by the Thai army, are working tirelessly to rescue those caught in the wreckage.
According to USC Professor John Vidal, while earthquakes of this magnitude are rare, the region is no stranger to seismic activity. The fault line running through the area is similar to California’s San Andreas, which has seen several significant earthquakes over the past century.
Myanmar’s military has appealed for international assistance, with the United States, Russia, and China pledging support and donations to aid recovery efforts. However, foreign journalists face difficulties accessing Myanmar due to the country’s restrictive policies.
In Los Angeles, the L.A. County Fire Department’s elite Urban Search and Rescue team is on standby, prepared to assist if called upon. As the world watches, efforts are focused on rescuing survivors and providing relief to a region in desperate need.