Bangkok residents evacuate as 7.7 magnitude earthquake hits Myanmar

On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale rocked Myanmar, with its epicenter located approximately 50 kilometers east of the city of Monywa. The tremors were felt in nearby countries, including Thailand, prompting alarms and concerns among residents in Bangkok, the capital city. High-rise buildings swayed, and startled inhabitants were evacuated to the streets for safety. The quake occurred around 1:30 p.m. local time, causing significant panic but, fortunately, no immediate reports of casualties or major structural damage were found in Bangkok or Myanmar. The U.S. Geological Survey measured the earthquake as shallow, only 10 kilometers deep, which typically means the shockwaves can be felt over large distances. Footage captured by social media users in Bangkok showed the aftermath of the tremors, highlighting evacuation scenes and swaying skyscrapers. Water from rooftop pools cascaded down the sides of buildings as residents hurried outside. Thai authorities convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation and prepare for any potential aftershocks, underscoring the city’s vulnerability given its dense population of over 17 million. Reports from other areas, such as Naypyidaw, indicated damages, including buckled roads and falling debris, suggesting that the earthquake's impact was more pronounced in these locations. The region's ongoing civil unrest raised concerns about the response capabilities in Myanmar, which could complicate assessments and potential aid efforts following the tremors. Local media reported on the scenarios unfolding and continued to seek updates on the situation’s progression. Overall, while the initial reports from Bangkok indicated no immediate danger to residents, the event highlighted the risks posed by such natural disasters in densely populated urban centers. Further analyses will determine the earthquake’s full impact and whether it triggers any long-term changes in disaster preparedness protocols in both Myanmar and Thailand, as officials continue to monitor the seismic activity in the region.