The United States Geological Survey confirmed that a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Southeast Asia on Friday, March 28, causing widespread destruction and prompting the United Nations to mobilize in the region to assist those in need.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres stated that the epicenter of the quake was in Myanmar, noting, "The government of Myanmar has requested international support, and our team in Myanmar is already in contact to fully mobilize resources in the region to assist the people of Myanmar. However, other countries have also been affected. Myanmar is the hardest hit, and it remains the most vulnerable in this situation."
According to Myanmar’s military junta, 144 people have died, and 732 have been injured, though the death toll is expected to rise. In Thailand, at least seven people were killed and dozens are missing after a skyscraper under construction collapsed in Bangkok. The earthquake also shook buildings in China and caused damage to bridges and homes as far away as Vietnam.
Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has declared Bangkok an "area of emergency," while Myanmar’s military spokesperson, Gen. Zaw Min Tun, declared a state of emergency in six regions. Unlike previous natural disasters, including Cyclone Mocha in 2023 and Cyclone Nargis in 2008, Myanmar has agreed to accept international assistance. Gen. Zaw Min Tun emphasized, "We will cooperate with international aid to ensure the best care for the victims."
Source: USA Today
