Powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake strikes Myanmar; tremors felt across Southeast Asia
What's the story
A powerful earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday. The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude of 7.7, while the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) reported an even stronger jolt of 7.9 magnitude. According to the USGS, an aftershock with a magnitude of 6.4 struck the region around 12 minutes after the initial quake. The earthquake hit at around 12:50pm local time (06:20 GMT), 16km northwest of Sagaing city at a depth of 10km.
Regional impact
Tremors felt far beyond Myanmar's borders
The tremors were felt in Yunnan province, China, reported Xinhua news agency. Strong vibrations were also felt in Thailand and Vietnam, with some reports also suggesting that tremors were felt in India in the Delhi-NCR and the Northeast region. Unverified videos shared online show people in Bangkok were seen rushing out of high-rises as forceful tremors splashed water out of pools. There has been no immediate report of damage or casualties from either Myanmar or Thailand.
Twitter Post
Visuals from Bangkok
BREAKING: Powerful earthquake causes skyscraper under construction to collapse in Bangkok, Thailand.pic.twitter.com/Sd6pMMiTLH
— AZ Intel (@AZ_Intel_) March 28, 2025
Reports
Metro, light rail services in Bangkok suspended
The intensity of the tremors caused roads to buckle in Naypyidaw, the capital of Myanmar, according to the AFP news agency. Additionally, portions of ceilings collapsed from buildings. There are also reports that individuals are trapped beneath the debris of a collapsed building that was under construction in the Chatuchak district of Bangkok. In the aftermath, a number of metro and light rail services in Bangkok have been temporarily suspended.
History
Earthquakes are common in Myanmar
Earthquakes are rather common in Myanmar, with six severe quakes of 7.0 magnitude or higher recorded between 1930 and 1956 near the Sagaing Fault. According to the Mineral Resources Department, there are 15 active faults in Thailand, apart from the Sagaing Fault, that can cause quakes of various intensities. In 2016, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Bagan, Myanmar's ancient city, killing three people and destroying spires and temple walls.