Over 1,000 Confirmed Dead in Myanmar Earthquake, More Casualties Expected

More than 1,000 fatalities have been confirmed following a devastating earthquake in Myanmar, with the military government announcing on Saturday that over 2,370 individuals have sustained injuries. The earthquake struck on Friday, resulting in extensive destruction across the region.

The Red Cross has reported catastrophic damage, raising alarms about the potential for river dams along the Irrawaddy to collapse. The situation in Myanmar remains chaotic as the country has been grappling with violence and instability since a military coup in February 2021. Information from the ground is scarce, with the military junta providing updates on confirmed deaths while officially listing 30 individuals as missing. Efforts to compile more detailed casualty lists are underway.

According to estimates from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the death toll could reach into the thousands, with predictions suggesting that over 10,000 individuals may have perished in Myanmar and adjacent regions. The European Commission has activated the Copernicus satellite service to better assess the earthquake's impact and has committed an initial EUR2.5 million in emergency aid.

In response to the disaster, Russia announced it would send a team of 120 experienced rescuers, along with medical personnel and search dogs, as reported by state news agency TASS. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that his administration is prepared to offer assistance, following discussions with officials in Myanmar. China, a key ally of Myanmar, has dispatched a small disaster response team equipped with specialized tools across the border and has pledged additional support. Xi Jinping, the Chinese leader, expressed his condolences to junta chief Min Aung Hlaing.

In Thailand, three deaths have been officially confirmed, although reports suggest that as many as ten fatalities may have occurred, with 101 individuals reported missing in Bangkok alone. The Thai Meteorological Department recorded additional minor tremors the day after the major earthquake. Among the 77 aftershocks detected, most were considerably weaker and barely perceptible. In Bangkok, a construction site high-rise collapsed amidst the chaos, prompting ongoing search operations for those trapped in the rubble. As recovery efforts progress, some aspects of daily life are returning to normal in the Thai capital, with certain subway lines resuming operations while others remain under inspection for damage.