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Overview
On 28 March, a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing widespread devastation. The disaster claimed the lives of over 3,000 people, left 4,700 people injured and more than 340 others missing. The epicentre was located approximately 16 km north-west of Sagaing City and 19 km north-west of Mandalay City, destroying homes and civilian infrastructure. This disaster has impacted regions already home to the highest number of internally displaced people (IDPs) – around 1.55 million of Myanmar’s 3.5 million IDPs – many of whom have been fleeing conflict for over four years. The earthquake has exacerbated their already severe vulnerabilities, which have been compounded by ongoing conflict and extreme weather events such as cyclones and floods.
In response, the State Administration Council declared a 20-day ceasefire on 2 April to facilitate relief efforts in earthquake-affected areas, although there have been reports of sporadic incidents in some areas.
The announcement follows earlier ceasefire announcements by the National Unity Government on 29 March and another by the Three Brotherhood Alliance (Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army,
Ta’ang National Liberation Army and Arakan Army) on 1 April.
UNHCR is urgently seeking USD 16 million to provide life-saving assistance to those affected by the devastating earthquake in Myanmar.