Death Toll Rises to 1,002 as Myanmar Struggles to Recover from Devastating 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake
The death toll from the catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday has now risen to 1,002, according to state-run MRTV. As rescue operations intensify, the international community has begun mobilizing aid to assist in relief efforts, though concerns remain over the growing number of casualties.
In addition to the confirmed deaths, authorities have reported 2,376 people injured and 30 missing. The earthquake, which hit at lunchtime on Friday, caused widespread destruction, affecting vital infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings. Many civilians have been caught in the rubble, prompting ongoing search and rescue operations in the worst-hit regions.
“Infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings were affected, leading to casualties and injuries among civilians. Search and rescue operations are currently being carried out in the affected areas,” stated Myanmar’s junta in a statement issued through state media.
General Min Aung Hlaing, the country’s military leader, has expressed concerns about the rising death toll and urged for international assistance, inviting “any country” to contribute help and donations.
International Aid Arrives
Rescue teams from across the world have begun arriving in Myanmar to assist in recovery efforts. A Chinese team of 37 rescuers, equipped with medicine and life-detection equipment, landed in Yangon on Saturday morning. Russia has also pledged support, sending 120 experienced rescuers along with doctors and search dogs. The United States has offered assistance as well, with President Donald Trump confirming that his administration has been in contact with Myanmar officials regarding the disaster response.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has predicted that the death toll could rise above 10,000, with damages potentially exceeding the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Susan Hough, a seismologist with the USGS, noted that the timing of the earthquake, which occurred during the day when most people were awake, may reduce the overall death toll compared to a nighttime disaster.
Devastation in Mandalay and Thailand
Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city located near the quake’s epicenter, has borne the brunt of the destruction. Meanwhile, in neighboring Thailand, authorities are scrambling to rescue workers trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed 33-story tower in Bangkok, nearly 620 miles from the epicenter. Thai officials have reported at least nine deaths and 101 missing, mostly construction workers.
“We will do everything, we will not give up on saving lives, we will use all resources,” said Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt on Saturday. Excavators are working around the clock to remove debris, and drones are being used to search for survivors.
Although the Thai capital was paralyzed on Friday, with hundreds of people spending the night in city parks, authorities reported that the situation was improving.
As Myanmar continues its search for survivors, the international community remains on alert, offering support and hoping to mitigate the full impact of this devastating natural disaster.