Earthquake aftermath: Myanmar death toll nears 3,000
In Myanmar, the number of earthquake victims has risen to 2,719, with more than 4,500 people injured. Authorities warn that the death toll could exceed three thousand.
What do you need to know?
- An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck Myanmar, with its epicentre near the city of Mandalay. The tremors were also felt in neighbouring Thailand.
- Over 2,700 people have died, and more than 4,500 have been injured. More than 10,000 buildings have collapsed or been damaged.
- The country observed a moment of silence in memory of the victims, and flags on official buildings will remain at half-mast until 6th April.
According to information provided by junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, the death toll from the earthquake in Myanmar has risen to 2,719, and more than 4,500 people have been injured.
Authorities warn that the death toll may exceed 3,000. Searches for the missing are ongoing, with the number of missing currently at 441.
In the region of the city of Mandalay, which was close to the epicentre, the situation is particularly challenging. The collapse of a kindergarten resulted in the deaths of at least 50 children and two caregivers.
According to the BBC, the stench of decomposing bodies filled the streets of the city of Sagaing near the epicentre, and the crematoriums in nearby Mandalay are overwhelmed. One of the British broadcaster's interviewees reported that the bodies of those killed are being cremated on pyres.
Earthquake in Thailand
Aid organisations are raising the alarm about the urgent need for shelter, food, and water for those affected. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 10,000 buildings have collapsed or have been seriously damaged in the central and northwestern parts of the country.
In Thailand, where the tremors were also felt, at least 18 people, mainly construction workers, have died. The tremors damaged hundreds of buildings, including skyscrapers in Bangkok, located approximately 1,000 kilometres from the epicentre.
