By Chainarong Monthienvichienchai, LiCAS News
A massive earthquake that struck central Myanmar on Friday sent tremors through Bangkok and northern Thailand, causing high-rise buildings to sway, rooftop pools to overflow, and hospitals to evacuate patients as a precaution.
The 7.7-magnitude quake, which hit northwest of Sagaing near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, occurred at a shallow depth, according to the United States Geological Survey. Several minor aftershocks followed, shaking parts of Thailand, including Bangkok, where roads buckled and buildings sustained damage.
City authorities in Bangkok declared the city a disaster zone to coordinate emergency aid. Shopping malls and office buildings temporarily shut down, and the elevated BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems were suspended for safety inspections.
Rescue teams rushed to the Chatuchak area, where a 30-story building under construction collapsed, trapping more than 40 workers. Hospitals like St. Louis Hospital evacuated patients, with nurses and medical staff ensuring their safety. Schools with summer programs also moved students to designated areas.
In Myanmar, reports from Taungoo City described extensive damage, particularly to Sacred Heart Cathedral, where debris fell, and religious statues were toppled. Authorities in Naypyidaw, Myanmar’s capital, also reported structural damage.
Cardinal Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo, president of Caritas Internationalis, appealed for prayers for the victims, expressing concern for the people of Mandalay.
As aftershocks continue, officials in both Myanmar and Thailand remain on high alert, with rescue and assessment operations ongoing.
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