3 days ago
Last Updated:March 28, 2025, 18:09 IST
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake and an aftershock of 6.4, hit central Myanmar on Friday, with strong tremors in Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, leading to over 100 deaths.
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake followed by another 6.4 tremor struck Myanmar. (Reuters)
Myanmar was rocked by a massive earthquake of 7.7 magnitude, followed by another 6.4 tremor that toppled buildings, destroyed an iconic bridge and left nearly 60 people dead. At least four people were killed in neighbouring Thailand when a skyscraper collapsed, and dozens are trapped in the rubble.
Hundreds of casualties were taken to a hospital in the capital Naypyidaw, with the wounded being treated outside because of damage to the building. The Thai government declared a state of emergency in Bangkok, while the Myanmar junta did the same in at least six regions.
The US Geological Survey said that thousands of people are feared dead as search and rescue operations are underway. The tremors of the earthquake were felt in China, Cambodia, Bangladesh and some Indian states.
What To Do Before An Earthquake?
The Disaster Management Authority has outlined a number of steps an individual should do before an earthquake. That includes identifying safe places indoors and outdoors where people can hide themselves in case of a tremor and having an emergency kit ready.
Individuals are advised to hang heavy items away from beds or anywhere people may sit, repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections and develop an emergency communication plan in case an earthquake strikes. They should also keep ready a battery operated torch, radio, first aid kit, emergency food, essential medicines, cash and credit cards and water.
In case family members are separated from one another during an earthquake, people are advised develop a plan for reuniting after the disaster.
What To Do During An Earthquake?
Stay calm and do not panic. Remain where you are – if you are indoors, stay indoors and if you are outdoors, stay outdoors.Minimise your movements to a few steps that reach a nearby safe place, in case a larger earthquake occurs.If you are indoors, drop to the ground and get under a sturdy table or any other piece of furniture.Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall. Go outside only when till the tremors stop.If you are outdoors, move away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and open power wires. Stay in open space till the shaking stops.If you are in a moving vehicle, stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle and stay away from buildings and open power lines.If you are trapped, cover your mouth with a handkerchief or a clothing and tap on a pipe or wall so you can be located.What Not To Do During An Earthquake?
Don’t move from where you are in case an earthquake strikes. Avoid venturing outside till the tremors stop.Avoid rushing outside to other rooms while a building is shaking.Stay away from windows and glass during an earthquake. If you are outside, do not go near buildings, trees or open power lines.Do not use elevators, as they may shut down during an earthquake.Do not use matches, lighters or open flames until you are sure that there are no broken gas lines nearby.If you are in a vehicle, do not stop near buildings or open power lines and move to an open space. Do not go outside till the shaking stops.Location :Myanmar (Burma)
First Published:March 28, 2025, 18:09 IST
News world Myanmar Earthquake: What Are The Dos And Don'ts During, After A Quake?
