The recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has resulted in a devastating toll, with reports indicating over 2,000 fatalities, according to state media. The quake struck near Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city, causing mass casualties, particularly among Muslims at prayer in mosques during Ramadan and around 270 Buddhist monks at a collapsed monastery. Relief efforts have been hampered by power outages, fuel shortages, and poor communication, which have impeded rescue operations in sweltering temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
Rescue crews are still searching for approximately 150 missing monks from the U Hla Thein monastery, while local activist groups report at least 700 casualties among Muslim worshippers, with significant damage to around 60 mosques. The official death toll might not fully account for all fatalities, as reports of casualties continue to rise from hard-to-reach areas where communication is limited.
The military government has noted 2,065 dead and around 3,900 injured, but humanitarian officials worry the true extent of the disaster is still unknown. The United Nations has appealed for unhindered access to aid teams, as nearly 20 million people in Myanmar were already in dire need of assistance prior to the quake. The civil unrest following the military coup in 2021 has made humanitarian operations increasingly complex, with many regions becoming inaccessible due to violence.
The earthquake’s damage is substantial, with reports of entire towns near Mandalay suffering severe destruction. Three hospitals were reported destroyed, and there is an urgent need for medical supplies and mental health support. Satellite analyses have revealed extensive damage across Mandalay, further complicating relief efforts.
International aid is beginning to arrive, with rescue teams from countries such as India, China, and several Southeast Asian nations deployed to assist. The European Union, the UK, Australia, and other nations have pledged financial support for recovery efforts. However, persistent civil strife and the approaching monsoon season threaten to worsen the situation, as many displaced residents have been left without shelter.
In Bangkok, Thailand, the earthquake had its toll as well, killing at least 18 individuals, mainly due to a construction site collapse. Local authorities are working to locate individuals still missing at the site amid fears they may not survive.
The full extent of the devastation in Myanmar remains unclear, but the need for urgent humanitarian assistance is critical as the nation faces significant challenges ahead.