A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and parts of neighboring Thailand on Friday, killing more than 150 people and causing widespread destruction, with officials warning that the death toll may rise, according to Al Jazeera.
Myanmar’s state broadcaster MRTV reported at least 144 deaths and 732 injuries across the country, with the epicenter located near the ancient capital of Mandalay.
A strong 6.4-magnitude aftershock followed minutes later, further compounding the damage, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The tremor devastated buildings in Myanmar’s modern capital, Naypyidaw, particularly government housing complexes, where rescue teams were seen pulling victims from the rubble. The head of the country’s military administration cautioned that the toll could increase as more information emerges.
In Thailand, at least nine people were confirmed dead in the capital Bangkok, including eight in the collapse of a 33-storey under-construction building near Chatuchak market. Video footage posted online showed the structure collapsing into a massive cloud of dust as onlookers screamed and fled.
Bangkok’s Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej confirmed the building collapse toll, while Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said at least 90 people remain missing.
Rescue operations are ongoing in both countries as emergency services race against time to locate survivors buried beneath the debris.
