An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck Southeast Asia on Friday causing catastrophic destruction and panic. Myanmar was hit hardest, experiencing multiple fatalities and serious building damage. For example, a mosque in Taungoo collapsed killing at least three people and a hotel in AungBan collapsed killing two people and injuring 20. In Bangkok, a skyscraper building collapsed resulting in one death and numerous injuries.
The military junta ruling Myanmar declared a state of emergency in several regions, pledging rapid rescue and humanitarian relief. Mandalay, located close to the epicenter of the quake suffered a great deal of damage with buildings smashed to pieces. Residents fled in desperation as panic spread, rushing into the streets.
The intense shake with follow up aftershocks led the authorities in Bangkok to put the capital into a state of disaster. Emergency teams are assessing damage and coming to the aid of victims in the impacted areas.
