A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, shaking buildings and terrifying residents across Southeast Asia. The tremor, which occurred at midday, was felt as far south as Bangkok, Thailand and was followed by a strong 6.4 aftershock.
Authorities confirm that more than 150 people have died, with the death toll expected to rise as rescue operations continue. Emergency teams are searching through collapsed buildings and rubble in affected regions, while hospitals report being overwhelmed with injured victims.
Myanmar’s government has declared a state of emergency in the most severely impacted areas, with both domestic and international aid efforts being mobilized.
Seismologists say the quake occurred along a major fault line near Mandalay, a densely populated city, making the impact especially devastating. Images and videos shared online show crumbled temples, destroyed homes, and panicked citizens rushing to safety.
The region remains on high alert for additional aftershocks, and residents have been advised to stay outside buildings and avoid unstable structures.