A destructive earthquake impacted countless people in Thailand and Myanmar on March 28, 2025. The 7.7-magnitude quake resulted in catastrophic structural damage and fatalities across both countries. While Myanmar and Thailand got the brunt of the force, other countries that were affected include Bangladesh, China and India.
While public figures around the world grapple with the news, several have reacted to the tragedy, including Pope Francis, who had just been released from the hospital due to a health setback.
“”Deeply saddened by the loss of life and widespread devastation caused by the earthquake in Southeast Asia, especially in Myanmar and Thailand, his Holiness Pope Francis offers heartfelt prayers for the souls of the deceased and the assurance of his spiritual closeness to all affected by this tragedy,” Cardinal Pietro Parolin said in a telegram, according to ABC News. “His holiness likewise prays that the emergency personnel will be sustained in their care of the injured and displaced by the divine gifts of fortitude and perseverance.”
Below, get updates on the ongoing situation in Myanmar and Thailand.
7.7 magnitude earthquake hits Southeast Asia, mainly impacting Myanmar and Thailand.
pic.twitter.com/hIEgS2w712
— Pop Base (@PopBase) March 28, 2025
How Many People Died From the Earthquake?
As of April 3, 2025, the death toll from the earthquake that struck Myanmar nearly a week ago has risen to 3,145, as search and rescue teams continue to recover more bodies.
Information Minister Maung Maung Ohn also announced at a meeting in the capital, Naypyitaw, that 4,589 people were injured and 221 others were still missing, state television MRTV reported.
When the earthquake first hit, fewer than 200 deaths were initially reported, according to ABC News. In a statement, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, who leads Myanmar, warned that casualties “are expected to rise.”
“Buildings have collapsed in several areas, and rescue operations are underway,” he added. “I have personally visited some affected sites to assess the situation. I would like to call upon everyone to join hands and support the ongoing rescue missions.”
What Was the Epicenter of the Earthquake?
According to multiple reports, the epicenter of the quake was located in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city.
Was There an Earthquake in Bangkok?
There was no separate earthquake that struck Bangkok, but the city still felt the impact of the Mandalay quake. Despite being hundreds of miles from the epicenter, a skyscraper under development collapsed in Bangkok. Hundreds of construction workers were on-site when the structure began to crumble and eventually caved in.
According to The New York Times, it was the only building in Bangkok to collapse during the earthquake. Interviews with workers and early official findings suggest the isolated collapse may have been due to issues with construction design and quality.
