Massive 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar, Devastating impact Felt in Thailand

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, sending shockwaves as far as Bangkok, Thailand, where residents fled swaying buildings in panic.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred at a shallow depth of 10km (six miles) with its epicenter near Mandalay, approximately 50km (30 miles) east of Monywa.

Despite the strong tremors, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or structural damage in Myanmar, a country already grappling with political instability following a 2021 military coup.

The Guardian UK reported that the earthquake caused panic in central Bangkok, where residents of high-rise condominiums and hotels rushed into the streets. Greater Bangkok, home to over 17 million people, experienced noticeable tremors, raising concerns over potential aftershocks.