A powerful earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, March 28, causing widespread panic in Yangon and Bangkok, Thailand’s capital. Eyewitnesses reported people rushing out of buildings in fear as the tremors were strongly felt in both cities. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake measured 7.7 in magnitude and occurred at a depth of 10 km. A strong aftershock followed soon after. The epicenter was located approximately 17.2 km from Mandalay, a city home to around 1.2 million people.

As of now, there have been no official reports on casualties or damage. A Myanmar Fire Services Department officer told Reuters that search operations had begun across Yangon to assess the situation. However, no confirmed details have been released yet. Social media posts from Mandalay showed collapsed buildings and streets littered with debris, though Reuters could not immediately verify these images. Witnesses in Yangon described people frantically running out of buildings, fearing further tremors.

In Bangkok, the tremors triggered panic among residents and tourists alike. Many hotel guests were seen fleeing onto the streets in bathrobes and swimwear, uncertain about the extent of the quake’s impact. Authorities in Myanmar are continuing their assessment of the situation, while neighboring regions remain on alert for potential aftershocks. The earthquake has raised concerns about possible structural damage and the need for immediate relief efforts.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.