Deadly Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand
A deadly earthquake rocked Myanmar and Thailand, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming over 140 lives. The powerful 7.7-magnitude quake struck near Mandalay, collapsing buildings, damaging infrastructure, and sending tremors as far as Cambodia and India. This deadly earthquake highlights the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity due to its location between two tectonic plates.
The devastation was most severe in Myanmar’s ancient capital, Mandalay, close to the epicenter in the Sagaing region. In Thailand, a high-rise under construction in Bangkok crumbled, killing at least eight people. Rescue efforts continue as authorities fear the death toll will rise. Experts warn that shallow quakes like this deadly earthquake can cause extreme damage, especially in areas with weak infrastructure.
What Causes Earthquakes?
Earthquakes occur due to the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. The planet’s crust consists of massive plates that constantly shift, collide, or slide past each other. When stress builds up and releases, it causes the ground to shake violently.
The deadly earthquake in Myanmar resulted from the India and Eurasia plates rubbing against each other sideways, a phenomenon known as strike-slip faulting. This movement is similar to California’s San Andreas Fault, which has triggered destructive quakes in the past. The energy released travels through the ground, leading to widespread tremors.
Aftershocks often follow the main quake as the Earth’s crust adjusts to the sudden shift. The US Geological Survey (USGS) explains that these secondary tremors occur due to changes in stress levels underground.
Why Is Myanmar Prone to Earthquakes?
Myanmar sits between two massive tectonic plates—the India Plate and the Eurasia Plate. The boundary between them, known as the Sagaing Fault, runs 1,200 km (745 miles) through major cities like Mandalay and Yangon. This makes the region highly susceptible to seismic activity.
The deadly earthquake was particularly destructive because it occurred at a shallow depth of just 10 km (6 miles). Shallow quakes transfer more energy to the surface, increasing the intensity of shaking. Dr. Ian Watkinson from Royal Holloway University noted that Myanmar’s rapid urbanization, with many high-rise buildings, worsened the impact.
Unlike earthquake-prone regions like Japan or California, Myanmar lacks strict construction codes to withstand seismic forces. Many structures collapsed due to poor reinforcement, leading to higher casualties. Experts compare this disaster to the 2023 Turkey-Syria quake, where weak buildings contributed to massive destruction.
How Powerful Was the Earthquake?
The quake measured 7.7 on the Moment Magnitude Scale, making it one of the strongest in Myanmar’s recent history. The USGS estimates that nearly 800,000 people experienced severe shaking, with millions more feeling tremors across neighboring countries.
In Myanmar, the royal palace in Mandalay suffered damage, and the Ava Bridge—a crucial transport link—collapsed. In Thailand, Bangkok’s skyscrapers swayed, and a partially built high-rise toppled, trapping dozens of workers. Rescue teams are still searching for survivors under the rubble.
State media in Myanmar reported at least 144 deaths, but the toll is expected to rise. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and aid agencies are struggling to reach remote areas. The deadly earthquake has left thousands homeless, with many sleeping in temporary shelters.
Could This Happen Again?
Myanmar has a history of destructive earthquakes, including a 7.3 magnitude quake in Bago in 1930 that killed over 550 people. The Sagaing Fault remains highly active, meaning future quakes are inevitable.
Seismologists warn that another deadly earthquake could strike anytime, given the constant movement of tectonic plates. Without better infrastructure and disaster preparedness, the region remains vulnerable. Governments in Southeast Asia are now under pressure to enforce stricter building regulations.
For now, survivors are left picking up the pieces. The international community has pledged support, but recovery will take years. This deadly earthquake serves as a grim reminder of nature’s unpredictable power.
