Attachments
(1.2) Background
(DMH-Issued at 14:15 hrs M.S.T. on 28-3-2025)
On 28 March, at around 12:50 PM local time, a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, with its epicentre near Mandalay and Sagaing cities at a shallow depth of 10km.The tremors were felt across the country and beyond. Another 6.4 magnitude earthquake further south followed within minutes. Preliminary reports indicate that upwards of 1,000 people have been killed and over 2,200 others injured, while approximately 200 others are missing in central and northwestern Myanmar. The majority of the deaths were reported in the Mandalay area. The State Administration Council (SAC) has declared a state of emergency for Bago Region, Mandalay Region, Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory, Sagaing Region and parts of Shan State and called for international assistance. The earthquake caused widespread destruction of homes and severe damage to critical infrastructure. Initial reports indicate that Mandalay International Airport (with commercial flights cancelled until further notice), major bridges, roads, universities, hotels, historical and religious sites and public service buildings in urban and rural areas have been heavily damaged or destroyed. Thousands of people are spending the nights on the streets or open spaces due to the damage and destruction to home or fearing further quakes