7.7 Magnitude Quake Rocks Myanmar, Traps 43 in Bangkok Skyscraper Collapse
A massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, sending shockwaves across Southeast Asia. The tremors were so powerful they were felt hundreds of miles away in Bangkok, where chaos erupted after a high-rise construction site gave way, trapping at least 43 people inside.
Bangkok Buildings Shake as Skyscraper Collapses
In Thailand’s bustling capital, the quake rattled buildings and sparked panic. A tower still under construction collapsed without warning. Rescue teams scrambled to save workers believed trapped under the rubble.
Gripping footage shared on Thai social media shows the moment the skyscraper buckled, and water pouring off a rooftop pool as the ground quaked beneath.
Local media report that around 50 workers were on site at the time. The Thai fire department launched an urgent search-and-rescue mission, and injured workers were seen being carried to safety by colleagues.
Devastation at Earthquake Epicentre in Myanmar
While Bangkok deals with the fallout, Myanmar faces a grim reality. The quake hit an already unstable region, causing bridges to collapse and historic monasteries and pagodas to crumble.
Images from around Mandalay reveal widespread destruction, but communication blackouts make it hard to confirm the full extent of the damage.
Humanitarian groups warn that aid efforts will be tough, citing ongoing conflict and restricted access in the quake-hit area.
Quick Facts on the Myanmar Earthquake
- A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay early Friday.
- Bangkok, Thailand, experienced strong tremors despite being hundreds of miles away.
- A skyscraper under construction in Bangkok collapsed, trapping at least 43 people.
- Multiple buildings were evacuated as shaking spread across the city.
- Myanmar reports extensive infrastructure damage, though details remain limited.
- The Thai government launched a major emergency response.
- A 6.4 magnitude aftershock hit just 12 minutes after the main quake.
