Devastation in Myanmar: Earthquake leaves 144 dead, 730 injured
At least 144 people have died, and 730 have been injured - this is the current death toll from the earthquake in Myanmar, as reported by state television MRTV. The magnitude 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 earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.7, struck Myanmar (formerly Burma). The first shock occurred around 6:10 AM GMT.
- What are the effects of the earthquake? At least 144 people have died, and 730 have been injured. Tremors were also felt in neighbouring countries.
- What actions were taken after the disaster? The leader of the Burmese junta has appealed for international assistance.
The first shock occurred around 6:10 AM GMT and lasted 30 seconds. Twelve minutes later, a secondary tremor with a magnitude of 6.4 occurred.
According to CNN, Friday's earthquake in Burma was probably the strongest in modern times. The 1946 earthquake, estimated at a magnitude of about 7.6 - 7.7, was also recorded on the Sagaing Fault.
Photos and videos showing the scale of destruction are appearing online.
Around 10:30 AM GMT, 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, has 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.
The analysis indicated that the disaster is expected to cause significant loss of life and extensive damage, with far-reaching consequences.
Darkness in Bangkok, rescue operation ongoing
Even though it is already evening in Bangkok, rescuers are still searching through the rubble of a high-rise that collapsed earlier. Authorities reported that at least three people have died in the Thai capital, and about 80 may still be trapped.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra reassured the public that aftershocks from this event will not pose a severe threat. Residents of buildings that have been slightly damaged can safely return to their homes.
