A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck central Myanmar at 12:50 PM local time. The earthquake was followed by a strong aftershock measuring 6.8.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located near the city of Sagaing at a depth of 10 kilometers. Authorities have reported that more than 50 people are missing, and there are growing concerns about possible casualties.
The tremors were so strong that they were felt in neighboring countries, including Thailand and China. In Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, the metro system was temporarily suspended as a safety measure.
Myanmar is known to be a seismically active region and has experienced several major earthquakes in the past, including ones with magnitudes above 7.0. The Sagaing Bridge, a key structure in the region, could also be affected, though further assessments are needed.
Rescue teams are currently searching for the missing and assessing the damage caused by the disaster.
