A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, shaking buildings and causing devastation across multiple countries, including Thailand, China, Vietnam, and parts of India. The tremors, felt in Bangkok, were the strongest recorded worldwide since 2023, according to Bloomberg.
Casualties and Destruction
The earthquake claimed about 20 lives at a major hospital in Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, while at least three people were killed in Bangkok, Thailand, after an under-construction high-rise collapsed. Over 80 people are feared trapped under the rubble.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake struck at a depth of 10 kilometers, with its epicenter 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar.
Why Was the Earthquake So Strong?
Experts attribute the intensity of the quake to the Sagaing Fault, Myanmar’s longest fault line, which spans 1,200 kilometers.
Dr. O.P. Mishra, Director of the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), explained that the fault is a highly seismic-prone zone known to have triggered multiple earthquakes over 7.0 magnitude in the past.
- The shallow depth of the quake (between 20-30 km) intensified the destruction.
- A major aftershock of 7.0 magnitude occurred within minutes, followed by two more aftershocks of 5.0 and 4.9 magnitude.
Why Was Bangkok Affected?
Bangkok, though far from the epicenter, suffered damage due to the direction of the fault rupture.
“The Sagaing Fault’s rupture was heading toward Bangkok, making tremors more intense,” Dr. Mishra explained. He also pointed out that Bangkok’s alluvial soil increased the risk of liquefaction, weakening buildings and infrastructure.
What’s Next?
Experts predict more aftershocks within the next 24 hours. Authorities across affected regions are conducting rescue operations, assessing structural damage, and monitoring further seismic activity.
Sources By Agencies
