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A powerful earthquake has caused serious damage across parts of Southeast Asia. It happened yesterday with the center of the earthquake being a few miles from the city of Mandalay, and as evening comes in Myanmar and Thailand, here is what we know so far.
The earthquake had a strength of 7.7. 1600 people are known to have died, but this figure may rise substantially as reports come in.
The shaking was felt in Thailand and even in China. Because the earthquake was relatively shallow as earthquakes go, likely about 6 miles underground, it caused a lot of shaking on the surface.
Rescue teams are still searching for people who may be alive under the rubble. In Bangkok, one building collapsed, and 50 people are still missing. Their families are waiting for news. Rescuers believe at least 15 people may still be alive there.
In Myanmar: At least 144 people have been confirmed dead, with over 700 injured. The earthquake caused extensive damage to buildings, bridges, and dams. A state of emergency has been declared in six regions.
In Thailand: In Bangkok, a high-rise building under construction collapsed, resulting in at least 10 deaths. Dozens more are feared trapped under the rubble. The city has been declared a disaster area, and rescue operations are ongoing.
In Mandalay, Myanmar—close to where the earthquake started—90 people are trapped under a collapsed apartment block. Over 1,500 homes were damaged in that area, according to Myanmar’s military government.
The situation is evolving, and casualty figures may rise as rescue operations continue. Authorities are urging the public to stay informed through official channels and to avoid spreading unverified information.
A person in Mandalay said they have “lost everything”.
Many countries are now sending help. The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) says it will help with the relief efforts.
Sources: BBC, CNN, news agencies.
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