Myanmar was struck by a massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake, causing widespread devastation and triggering panic across several countries, including Thailand, India, China, and Bangladesh.

The quake’s epicentre was near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, with a depth of 10 kilometres beneath the surface. The tremors were so powerful that they were felt as far as Bangkok, where skyscrapers swayed and rooftop swimming pools spilt water like waterfalls.

The earthquake left hundreds trapped under debris as several buildings collapsed, reducing infrastructure to rubble. At least 142 people have been confirmed dead, but officials fear the actual death toll could be between 1,000 to 10,000 as rescue operations continue. Myanmar’s military government has declared a state of emergency in six regions and urgently appealed for international assistance.

Among the many damaged structures, a mosque partially collapsed, killing three worshippers and injuring several others. The disaster has also caused severe disruption in the capital, Naypyidaw, where key roads have been shut down. The US Geological Survey confirmed that the earthquake measured 7.7 on the Richter scale, striking 17.2 kilometres from Mandalay, a city with a population of over 1.2 million.

In Bangkok, the earthquake caused at least eight fatalities, with dozens injured as buildings shook violently. People fled their homes and offices in terror, while emergency responders rushed to assess the damage. Media reports indicate that multiple structures in Bangkok collapsed, adding to the chaos.

As aftershocks continue, rescue teams are working tirelessly to recover bodies and assist the injured. The full scale of devastation is yet to be determined, but authorities are bracing for a major humanitarian crisis in the coming days.