Severe Earthquake Hits Bangkok and Myanmar, Leading to Evacuations
Bangkok experienced significant tremors on Friday as two powerful earthquakes struck the region, causing panic among residents and prompting mass evacuations. The earthquakes affected not only Bangkok but also the neighboring country of Myanmar.
Details of the Earthquake Events
The U.S. Geological Survey, alongside Germany’s GFZ center for geosciences, reported that the first earthquake occurred around midday, registering at a shallow depth of approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) with its epicenter located in Myanmar. This was swiftly followed by a powerful aftershock measuring 6.4 magnitude just 12 minutes later.
Impact on Infrastructure and Residents
Authorities from Bangkok reported a significant incident when a skyscraper under construction collapsed due to the initial quake, resulting in at least 43 workers becoming trapped, according to medical sources cited by AFP. The collapse was near the well-known Chatuchak Market, further emphasizing the quake’s impact on urban areas.
Witness accounts describe high rises swaying dangerously, with rooftop pool water cascading over edges and debris raining down from buildings. Alarm systems in various structures activated, leading to significant evacuations as residents and visitors exited high-rise apartments and hotels, seeking safety in the streets below.
Government Response and Public Safety Measures
In light of the events, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an emergency meeting to evaluate the situation effectively. Fortunately, initial reports indicated that there were no immediate casualties, although panic spread throughout the densely populated capital, which is home to over 17 million individuals.
According to Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention, tremors from the first quake were felt across nearly all regions of the country. The earthquake’s epicenter was determined to be in central Myanmar, about 30 miles from Monywa, where it caused damage to religious sites and homes in Naypyitaw.
Aftermath and Ongoing Concerns
The situation in Myanmar remains precarious amid an ongoing civil conflict, which may impede timely reports on damage assessment and their humanitarian impact. As cities continue to grapple with aftershocks, authorities are focused on ensuring public safety and coordinating rescue efforts.