A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, with tremors shaking buildings as far as Bangkok, Thailand, nearly 1,000km away. The quake’s epicentre was located about 50km east of Monywa, near the central city of Mandalay, at a shallow depth of just 10km, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
Myanmar Earthquake 2025: Immediate Impact
- Location: Near Mandalay, Myanmar
- Magnitude: 7.7
- Depth: 10km (shallow, increasing impact severity)
- Epicentre: 50km east of Monywa
- Casualties: At least 10 confirmed deaths in Mandalay; toll may rise
- Infrastructure Damage: Ava Bridge collapsed; religious buildings and schools damaged
- Emergency Response: Ongoing search-and-rescue efforts
In Mandalay, several buildings including three mosques collapsed during prayer times, tragically killing worshippers. In Taungoo, a school collapse has left over 20 children trapped under debris. Rescue operations are underway, with emergency teams racing against time.
Impact in Myanmar
In Mandalay, a city of 1.2 million residents, the earthquake led to the collapse of several buildings, including three mosques during religious services, resulting in at least 10 fatalities. Additionally, more than 20 children were reported trapped in a collapsed school in Taungoo, with rescue operations underway. The historic Ava Bridge over the Irrawaddy River sustained partial collapse, disrupting transportation and prompting emergency responses.
7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Mandalay, Myanmar
Multiple buildings destroyed in devastating quake.#Myanmar #Earthquake #แผ่นดินไหว pic.twitter.com/fgQTBlUqjw
— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) March 28, 2025
Effects in Thailand
The tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, located approximately 1,000 kilometers south of the epicenter. In Bangkok, a 30-story skyscraper under construction collapsed, trapping at least 43 workers; rescue efforts are ongoing. The Thai Prime Minister has declared a state of emergency in Bangkok, leading to the suspension of major infrastructure services, including the rapid transit system.
High-rise building collapses due to strong #earthquake in Chatuchak, Bangkok. #แผ่นดินไหว #กรุงเทพมหานคร pic.twitter.com/fiRV6ZIZq2
— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) March 28, 2025
Historical Earthquakes in Myanmar
Myanmar has experienced several significant earthquakes in its history, primarily due to the active Sagaing Fault. Notable events include:
| Date | Magnitude | Location | Deaths | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 March 1839 | 7.9–8.3 | Ava (Inwa) | 300–400 | Severe damage in Ava; led to relocation of the capital. |
| 5 May 1930 | 7.3 | Bago | ~500 | Extensive destruction in Bago and Yangon; fires and liquefaction were reported. |
| 12 September 1946 | 7.3 & 7.7 | North of Mandalay | N/A | Doublet earthquakes causing significant damage. |
| 21 March 1954 | 7.4 | Calcutta Region | N/A | It was the strongest earthquake in Myanmar since 1950. |
| 11 November 2012 | 6.8 | Shwebo | 26 | Damage to infrastructure and multiple casualties. |
Ongoing Developments
Rescue and relief operations are underway in both Myanmar and Thailand. Authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage, and international aid has been offered to assist in recovery efforts. Residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant for aftershocks and follow guidance from local authorities
