BANGKOK, March 28: A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar today, causing significant damage and loss of life, with tremors felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand. The quake has left several cities in disarray, prompting emergency declarations and large-scale rescue operations.

Myanmar Suffers Severe Destruction

The earthquake's epicenter was located near Mandalay, one of Myanmar's largest cities. The city witnessed extensive destruction, including the collapse of multiple buildings. Officials have confirmed at least eight fatalities, with many others injured. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors trapped beneath the rubble.

In Naypyidaw, the capital city, the military government declared a state of emergency across six regions. Infrastructure failures, including disrupted communication lines and damaged roads, are hampering relief efforts. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as aftershocks continue to rattle the region.

Bangkok Declared Disaster Area

In Thailand, the tremors from the earthquake caused buildings to sway in the capital city of Bangkok, leading to panic and chaos. A high-rise building under construction collapsed, resulting in at least three confirmed deaths and dozens more feared trapped. In response, Thai authorities have declared Bangkok a disaster area and established a specialized earthquake response command center to manage ongoing rescue operations.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured the public that emergency services are mobilized to handle the crisis. She warned of potential aftershocks and advised residents to stay alert and follow official safety guidelines.

Regional Impact and International Response

The earthquake's effects extended beyond Myanmar and Thailand, with tremors felt in China's southwestern Yunnan province. In the border city of Ruili, structural damage and injuries have been reported. Chinese authorities are assessing the damage and coordinating relief efforts in the affected areas.

Emergency response teams across Myanmar and Thailand continue to search for survivors and provide medical assistance to the injured. International aid agencies are also preparing to deliver humanitarian relief to the hardest-hit areas as the full scale of the disaster becomes clear.

Authorities in both nations are urging citizens to remain calm and to heed safety advisories as aftershocks remain a continuing threat. Further updates will follow as the situation develops.