ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, leaving a trail of destruction and causing significant loss of life. As of Saturday, the confirmed death toll had reached 694, with over 1,670 people injured, according to the country’s military government. The figures are expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue.
Growing Concern Over Rising Casualties
The earthquake, which struck during the afternoon, has severely impacted Myanmar’s infrastructure. Roads, bridges, and buildings have been left damaged, further complicating efforts to rescue survivors. As authorities assess the situation, concerns grow that the final toll could exceed 10,000 deaths, as predicted by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The USGS also noted that the timing of the earthquake, occurring when people were awake, could have reduced the number of casualties compared to a nighttime event. However, the devastation remains overwhelming, especially in Myanmar’s second-largest city, Mandalay, located near the earthquake’s epicenter.
International Aid and Support
In the wake of the disaster, international assistance began arriving to aid Myanmar’s recovery efforts. A Chinese rescue team, along with medical supplies and equipment to detect signs of life, reached Yangon, Myanmar’s former capital, on Saturday. Russia also dispatched a team of 120 rescuers, along with doctors and search dogs, to assist in the recovery operations.
U.S. President Donald Trump offered support to Myanmar, announcing plans to provide aid and resources. His administration has been in contact with local officials to determine the most effective ways to assist.
Rescue Efforts in Thailand
The earthquake also affected neighboring Thailand, where a 33-story building collapsed in the capital, Bangkok, trapping dozens of workers. Thai authorities reported at least nine deaths and 101 people missing, with many believed to be construction laborers buried under the rubble. Rescue teams, including drones and excavators, are tirelessly working to locate survivors, with the city in a state of heightened alert.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt stated that all available resources were being used to assist in the search for survivors. “We will not give up on saving lives,” he assured, as teams scoured the debris.
Continued Search for Survivors
The full extent of the disaster is still unfolding, and efforts to rescue those trapped beneath the rubble remain a priority. The United Nations and other global organizations are monitoring the situation closely, preparing to send further humanitarian aid.
As the death toll continues to rise, the people of Myanmar and Thailand remain in the thoughts of the international community. Rescue teams and aid are expected to intensify over the coming days as the full scope of the damage is realized.
