Breaking News: ​A powerful 7.7-magnitude quake struck central Myanmar

​A powerful earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread devastation and loss of life across the region. The 7.7-magnitude quake, centered near Mandalay, has led to significant casualties and structural damage in both Myanmar and neighboring Thailand.​Reuters+5Latest news & breaking headlines+5Reuters+5

The Earthquake's Impact

The earthquake occurred at approximately 12:50 PM local time, with its epicenter located about 17 kilometers from Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city and a cultural hub. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, intensifying its destructive potential. ​Reuters+2Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre+2New York Post+2Reuters

In Myanmar, state media have reported at least 144 fatalities and over 700 injuries. Mandalay experienced severe damage, with numerous buildings, bridges, and roads destroyed. Residents described scenes of chaos as structures collapsed and people fled into the streets, fearing aftershocks. The ancient city of Bagan, renowned for its thousands of Buddhist temples and pagodas, also suffered significant damage, raising concerns about the preservation of these historic sites. ​ElHuffPostReutersDIE WELT+5Latest news & breaking headlines+5New York Post+5

The earthquake's tremors extended beyond Myanmar's borders, affecting neighboring countries. In Thailand, the capital city, Bangkok, experienced the collapse of a 30-story building under construction, resulting in at least two deaths and numerous injuries. The disaster prompted authorities to declare a state of emergency in the affected areas and initiate extensive search and rescue operations. ​Reuters+2New York Post+2AP News+2

Challenges in Relief Efforts

Myanmar's ongoing internal conflicts pose significant challenges to disaster response efforts. The military junta's struggle with insurgent groups complicates coordination and delivery of aid to affected regions. Infrastructure damage, including collapsed bridges and damaged roads, further hampers access to devastated areas, delaying critical assistance to those in need. ​New York Post+1Reuters+1

Regional Seismic Activity

Myanmar is situated along the Sagaing Fault, a major tectonic boundary between the Indian and Eurasian plates, making it highly susceptible to seismic activity. Historically, the region has experienced significant earthquakes, including a 7.9-magnitude event in 1912. The recurrence of such powerful quakes underscores the need for improved seismic preparedness and infrastructure resilience in the area. ​Wikipedia – Die freie Enzyklopädie+2Wikipédia, l'encyclopédie libre+2维基百科，自由的百科全书+2Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre

International Response and Aid

In light of the disaster, Myanmar's junta has made a rare appeal for international assistance. Various countries and humanitarian organizations have expressed readiness to provide aid, though the extent and nature of international involvement remain to be determined. The global community's response will be crucial in addressing the immediate humanitarian needs and supporting long-term recovery efforts in the affected regions. ​Latest news & breaking headlines

The March 28 earthquake has left a profound impact on Myanmar and its neighboring countries, highlighting the devastating potential of natural disasters in seismically active regions. As rescue and relief operations continue, the focus remains on saving lives, providing medical care, and restoring infrastructure. The tragedy also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and the need for resilient infrastructure to mitigate the effects of such catastrophic events in the future. This news article is complied from different news sources.