Myanmar earthquake: Disaster toll rises with international aid plea
At least 144 people were killed, and 730 were injured. This is the earthquake's death toll in Myanmar, as reported by state television MRTV. The magnitude of 7.7 earthquake had its epicentre in Myanmar (Burma), but tremors were also felt in Thailand, India, and China.
What do you need to know?
- Where and when did the earthquake occur? The 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar (formerly Burma). The first shock occurred around 1:10 AM ET.
- What are the effects of the earthquake? At least 144 people died, and 730 were injured. Tremors were also felt in neighbouring countries.
- What actions were taken after the disaster? The leader of the Burmese junta appealed for international assistance.
The first shock occurred around 1:10 AM ET and lasted for 30 seconds. Twelve minutes later, a secondary tremor with a magnitude of 6.4 occurred.
According to CNN, Friday's earthquake that hit Burma was probably the strongest in modern times. The 1946 earthquake, estimated at a magnitude of about 7.6 to 7.7, was also recorded on the Sagaing Fault.
Photos and videos showing the scale of destruction are appearing online. Around 5:30 AM ET, the latest toll was released: 144 victims and 730 injured.
The BBC team in Burma, citing local authorities, reports that there are likely to be more victims.
Disaster in Burma. Earthquake victims could be in the thousands
The leader of the Burmese junta, Min Aung Hlaing, appealed to all countries for help and donations. He added that he has opened routes for international assistance and has accepted offers of help from India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), thousands of fatalities and significant economic losses are expected.
"There will likely be a very large number of fatalities and widespread destruction; the disaster is likely to have a wide impact," the analysis stated.
Darkness in Bangkok, rescue operation ongoing
Even though it is already evening in Bangkok, rescuers are still searching the rubble of a high-rise that collapsed earlier. Authorities reported that at least three people died in the Thai capital, and about 80 might still be trapped.
- We want to reassure the public that the aftershocks following this event will not pose a significant threat. Residents of high-rise buildings that sustained minor damage can safely return to their residences - reassured Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Earthquake in Thailand and Burma. No Canadians among the injured
Rescue services in Thailand and Burma confirmed that no Canadians were harmed in Friday's earthquake, informed the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a social media statement.
