Thousands Displaced as Powerful 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar

A devastating earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck Myanmar on Saturday, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes in panic as tremors rippled across the country.

The powerful quake, which occurred at approximately 4:18 a.m. local time, was centered in the remote northern region of Kachin State, near the border with China and India. According to the Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, the earthquake originated at a depth of 10 kilometers, making it a shallow but destructive seismic event.

Widespread reports from local authorities and humanitarian agencies indicate that thousands of people have been displaced as a result of the earthquake. In several towns and villages near the epicenter, buildings collapsed, roads were cracked open, and communication infrastructure was severely affected. Major cities, including Mandalay and Yangon, felt the tremors, causing temporary power outages and prompting residents to evacuate buildings.

Early assessments from the Myanmar Red Cross suggest that hundreds of homes have been either damaged or completely destroyed, leaving families without shelter. Emergency response teams have been dispatched to the worst-hit areas to assist with search and rescue operations and provide immediate relief supplies such as food, water, and temporary shelter.

In neighboring countries, including Thailand, Bangladesh, and parts of northeastern India, tremors were also felt, although no significant damage has been reported outside Myanmar.

As of Saturday afternoon, Myanmar’s disaster management officials have not yet released an official casualty figure, but local reports suggest that dozens may have been injured. Hospitals in affected areas are on high alert as aftershocks continue to be felt across the region.

International organizations, including the United Nations and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), have expressed concern and pledged support for relief efforts.

Authorities are urging residents in the affected regions to remain vigilant, avoid damaged structures, and follow safety advisories as the risk of aftershocks remains high.