Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand: Impact and Relief Efforts

On March 28, 2025, a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand struck central Myanmar, followed by several strong aftershocks. The quake caused severe damage to infrastructure, including bridges, buildings, and roads, particularly in and around Mandalay. According to initial reports, over 3,400 people were injured, more than 1,700 lost their lives, and approximately 300 remain missing.

In Thailand, the same earthquake had a significant impact, even though it occurred more than 1,300 kilometers (808 miles) away. A high-rise building in Bangkok collapsed. This resulted in 18 confirmed deaths and 33 injuries. Over 75 individuals are still missing because of the earthquake that hit Myanmar and Thailand.

Myanmar

• No members of the community were killed.
• Two publishers remain missing after the earthquake struck Myanmar and Thailand.
• Nine publishers were injured.
• 142 publishers have been displaced.
• Four homes were destroyed.
• 32 homes sustained major damage.
• 43 homes sustained minor damage.
• Two Kingdom Halls sustained major damage.
• Three Kingdom Halls sustained minor damage.

Thailand

• No members of the community were killed in the earthquake affecting Myanmar and Thailand.
• Two publishers were injured.
• 52 publishers were displaced.
• Four homes sustained major damage.
• 69 homes sustained minor damage.
• Eight Kingdom Halls sustained minor damage.

In response to the disaster, circuit overseers and local elders have been working tirelessly. They aim to offer spiritual comfort. They also provide practical support to those affected by the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. A Disaster Relief Committee has been established in Myanmar to coordinate the ongoing relief efforts. The community is committed to assisting those in need during this challenging time.

Myanmar and Thailand are situated in a seismically active region. Here, the Indian Plate collides with the Eurasian Plate. They are no strangers to earthquakes. Large, devastating quakes are less frequent here than in places like Japan or Indonesia. However, the region’s seismic activity poses a significant threat.

This is due to factors such as vulnerable infrastructure and population density. When a powerful earthquake strikes, it can cause widespread destruction across a large area. Its impact affects both countries due to their proximity. The damage is typically a result of both the primary event (the shaking) and secondary effects like landslides.

Destruction and Damage in Myanmar

Myanmar, being closer to the main tectonic plate boundary, often bears the brunt of earthquakes originating in the region. The damage is typically more severe and widespread.

1. Structural Damage:

• Historic Pagodas and Temples: Myanmar’s cultural heritage is particularly vulnerable. Famous ancient pagodas in Bagan, Mandalay, and other regions have sustained repeated damage over centuries. Cracking, spalling (crumbling of surface material), and even complete collapse of stupas have been documented in past quakes. The 2016 earthquake, for instance, damaged nearly 400 pagodas in Bagan alone.
• Buildings and Infrastructure: Modern and older buildings, especially those not built to seismic codes, suffer significant damage. This includes:
  • Collapsed buildings in urban and rural areas, leading to casualties.
  • Cracked walls and foundations in homes, schools, and hospitals.
  • Damage to critical infrastructure like bridges, roads, and communication towers isolates communities and hinders rescue efforts.

2. Landslides and Geological Effects:

• The mountainous and hilly terrain of northern and eastern Myanmar is highly susceptible to landslides triggered by strong quakes. These landslides can:
  • Bury entire villages located on slopes or at the base of mountains.
  • Block crucial roads and rivers, creating temporary lakes that can burst and cause downstream flooding.
  • Destroy agricultural land, a primary source of livelihood for many.

3. Human Impact:

• Casualties: Injuries and fatalities occur from collapsing structures, falling debris from pagodas, and landslides.
• Displacement: People whose homes are destroyed or deemed unsafe are forced into temporary shelters, often with limited access to aid.
• Economic Impact: The destruction of homes, infrastructure, and agricultural land creates a long-term economic burden for recovery and rebuilding.

Destruction and Damage in Thailand

Thailand generally experiences less intense shaking from these earthquakes. It is farther from the epicenter, which is often located in Myanmar. However, the effects, particularly in northern and western Thailand, can still be significant.

1. Structural Damage:

• Northern Provinces: Cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, which are closer to the Myanmar border, feel the strongest effects. Damage here includes:
  • Cracked walls and damaged buildings, particularly older or poorly constructed structures.
  • Superficial damage to modern buildings in city centers (e.g., broken windows, fallen ceilings).
  • Damage to local temples (“Wats”) that are central to community life.
• High-Rise Buildings in Bangkok: Bangkok is over 500 km away from the earthquake’s epicenter. During a large earthquake, tall skyscrapers can sway noticeably. Seismic waves are amplified through the soft basin on which the city is built. This can cause panic and minor non-structural damage inside buildings.

2. Psychological and Economic Impact:

• Public Anxiety: Even moderate shaking can cause significant fear and anxiety in a population not accustomed to frequent strong earthquakes.
• Tourism Disruption: The northern region is a key tourist destination. News of earthquake damage, even if minor, can deter tourists, impacting the local economy.
• Business Interruption: Evacuations and brief closures of businesses and airports for safety checks lead to short-term economic losses.

3. Limited Secondary Effects:

• Landslides are less common in Thailand than these events. However, they can occur in the northern mountainous areas. These landslides can potentially block roads.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the destruction caused by earthquakes in Myanmar and Thailand shows a stark contrast in severity. This contrast is driven by proximity to the seismic source. Myanmar is closer to the plate boundary.

It faces catastrophic impacts, including loss of life and widespread building collapse. The impacts also involve devastating landslides and irreparable damage to its priceless cultural heritage. Thailand, while more shielded, still experiences considerable shaking. The shaking damages property. It disrupts daily life and the economy.

It also instills public fear. These events underscore the critical and ongoing need for both nations to invest in earthquake-resistant construction. They must enforce strict building codes and develop robust early warning systems. It is also essential to run continuous public preparedness campaigns. All these efforts are necessary to mitigate the devastating effects of inevitable future seismic activity.