Mandalay: Myanmar has experienced 36 aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 2.8 to 7.5 following a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the country last Friday, according to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology.
The tremors, which continued through Monday morning, have caused widespread destruction and loss of life.
As of Sunday, the State Administration Council reported approximately 1,700 fatalities, 3,400 injuries, and 300 people still missing.
The initial quake, centered about 20 km from Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, was followed minutes later by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock, exacerbating the devastation.
The National Disaster Management Committee has declared a state of emergency across multiple regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, northeastern Shan State, Nay Pyi Taw, and Bago.
Rescue efforts are in full swing, with international aid being mobilized to assist the affected communities.
Key roads linking Mandalay and Yangon have been severely damaged, while airports in Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw remain temporarily closed, leading to flight cancellations.
Social media footage reveals extensive damage to infrastructure, including historical landmarks such as the Mandalay Palace and the Mahamuni Pagoda.
According to the United States Geological Survey, this is the strongest earthquake recorded globally in 2025.
The tremors were felt across neighbouring countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and southwest China.
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In Thailand, authorities confirmed 10 deaths, 42 injuries, and 78 people missing in Bangkok.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared a state of emergency in the capital, while tremors were strongly felt in northern provinces like Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son, where some tourist attractions in Pai District collapsed.
In the aftermath of the disaster, India swiftly extended humanitarian assistance, deploying rescue teams and aid to support Myanmar in evacuation efforts and relief operations.
