Devastating 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Central Myanmar, Thousands Feared Dead

On March 28, 2025, at approximately 12:50 p.m. local time, a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar near the city of Mandalay. The quake's epicenter was located near Sagaing, a region known for its seismic activity due to the Sagaing Fault. The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of about 10 kilometers, which intensified its destructive potential.

The earthquake resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. Initial reports indicated at least 144 deaths and over 700 injuries. Subsequent assessments suggested the death toll could surpass 10,000, with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) issuing a red alert for estimated fatalities, indicating "high casualties and extensive damage." The quake caused the collapse of numerous buildings, including a hotel in Mandalay where at least 80 bodies were recovered. In Bangkok, Thailand, approximately 700 kilometers away, the tremors led to the collapse of a building under construction, resulting in 10 deaths and 101 individuals reported missing.

The earthquake occurred along the Sagaing Fault, a major tectonic boundary between the Indian and Eurasian plates. This fault is known for its seismic activity due to the ongoing collision of these plates. The shallow depth of the quake contributed to its severity, causing significant ground shaking and structural damage.

The earthquake exacerbated Myanmar's existing humanitarian crisis, already strained by ongoing civil conflict. Tens of thousands were left homeless, with many seeking shelter in makeshift camps. Over 5,000 buildings, 1,824 schools, nearly 5,000 religious structures, and numerous bridges, roads, and dams were damaged. Rescue and relief operations were hampered by heavy rains and strong winds, with forecasts predicting continued thunderstorms, complicating efforts to provide aid.

In response to the disaster, various political and military actions were taken. On April 1, 2025, the Three Brotherhood Alliance—a coalition comprising the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), and the Arakan Army (AA)—declared a unilateral ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid. The military junta announced its own ceasefire on April 2, initially set to last until April 22 and later extended to April 30. Despite these declarations, reports indicated that military operations, including airstrikes, continued in certain areas during the ceasefire period.

The earthquake and subsequent events have had profound social and societal impacts. The disaster compounded existing challenges, with millions already displaced due to conflict. The destruction of infrastructure has hindered access to essential services. The junta has been accused of "weaponizing aid" by restricting assistance to rebel-held areas while favoring regions under its control. This has raised concerns among civil society and international aid organizations about the equitable distribution of aid.

Myanmar has a history of devastating earthquakes, with the Sagaing Fault being particularly active. The 2025 earthquake is one of the most severe in recent history, highlighting the region's vulnerability to seismic events.

The international community has responded to the crisis. The European Union activated its Copernicus satellite system to assess the damage and expressed readiness to provide emergency support. The United Nations has mobilized in Southeast Asia to help those in need. However, the ongoing political instability and conflict have complicated relief efforts, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts to address both immediate relief and long-term stability in Myanmar.