Myanmar Earthquake Claims Over 1,000 Lives, Death Toll Expected to Rise

A catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, leaving widespread destruction and claiming the lives of at least 1,002 people, with over 2,400 others injured.

The quake, which hit northwest of Sagaing at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, was followed by a powerful 6.7-magnitude aftershock and numerous smaller tremors, compounding the devastation across the region.

The disaster has wreaked havoc on cities such as Mandalay, where buildings crumbled into rubble and rescue efforts are underway to save those trapped beneath the debris.

The Ava Bridge, a century-old structure spanning the Irrawaddy River, collapsed into the waters below. In rural areas, casualty estimates remain scarce due to disrupted communication networks and ongoing challenges in accessing affected zones.

Myanmar’s military leadership has issued a rare international appeal for assistance. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing stated that "any country or organization" is welcome to contribute to relief efforts. Offers of aid have poured in from around the world, with India emerging as one of the first responders.

Under "Operation Brahma," India dispatched 15 tonnes of relief supplies to Yangon on Saturday via an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft. The shipment includes essential items such as tents, sleeping bags, blankets, food packets, water purifiers, solar lamps, and medical supplies.

Neighboring Thailand also felt the impact of the earthquake, with reports of casualties and structural damage in Bangkok and other areas. Indonesian President Joko Widodo extended condolences to both Myanmar and Thailand while pledging support for recovery efforts.

The United Nations has mobilized its resources to assist Myanmar and is coordinating with local authorities to address urgent needs.

The scale of destruction has drawn international attention. Pope Francis offered prayers for the victims while recovering from his own health challenges.

U.S. President Donald Trump also vowed American assistance, stating that "we will be helping" as images of flattened buildings and collapsed infrastructure emerged from the region.

The humanitarian crisis is further exacerbated by Myanmar’s ongoing civil conflict, which complicates relief operations and raises fears that the death toll will continue to rise.

In Mandalay alone, reports indicate that half of all buildings have been severely damaged or destroyed. Religious sites have not been spared; over 30 mosques were reduced to rubble during prayer time, resulting in significant loss of life.

As rescue teams work tirelessly amid aftershocks and logistical hurdles, Myanmar braces for what may be its most challenging recovery effort in decades.

The international community continues to rally support for a nation grappling with both natural disaster and political turmoil.