Myanmar earthquake deaths surge, officials fear over 3,000
In Myanmar, the number of earthquake victims has risen to 2,719, with more than 4,500 people injured. Authorities warn that the death toll could exceed 3,000.
What do you need to know?
- An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck Myanmar, with its epicenter near Mandalay. The tremors were also felt in neighboring Thailand.
- Over 2,700 people have died, and more than 4,500 have been injured. More than 10,000 buildings have collapsed or been damaged.
- Throughout the country, a moment of silence was observed in memory of the victims, and flags on official buildings will remain at half-staff until April 6.
According to information provided by junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, the death toll from the earthquake in Myanmar has risen to 2,719, and more than 4,500 people have been injured.
Authorities warn that the death toll may exceed 3,000. Searches for the missing are ongoing, with the number of missing at 441.
In the region near the city of Mandalay, which was close to the epicenter, the situation is particularly dire. The collapse of a kindergarten resulted in the deaths of at least 50 children and two caregivers.
According to the BBC, the stench of decomposing bodies fills the streets of the city of Sagaing near the epicenter, and the crematoriums in nearby Mandalay are overwhelmed. One of the British broadcaster's interviewees said that the bodies of those killed are being cremated on pyres.
Earthquake in Thailand too
Aid organizations are raising the alarm about the urgent need to provide shelter, food, and water for the affected. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 10,000 buildings have collapsed or been seriously damaged in the central and northwestern parts of the country.
In Thailand, where the tremors were also felt, at least 18 people, mainly construction workers, have been killed. The tremors damaged hundreds of buildings, including skyscrapers in Bangkok, located approximately 620 miles from the epicenter.
