Earthquake in Myanmar: Death Toll Rises to 694

International Desk

The death toll from the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has risen to 694, with 1,670 injured. Fears remain that the number of fatalities could exceed several thousand, according to a BBC report.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) has warned that the total death toll from the earthquake, which struck on Friday, March 28, may surpass 10,000. Beyond the human cost, the financial, environmental, infrastructural, and overall damages are estimated to exceed $1 billion. Entire areas have been flattened, resembling war zones.

The USGS reported that after the initial 7.7-magnitude quake, at least 14 aftershocks followed, keeping the country in a state of panic. The earthquake struck near Mandalay in central Myanmar at 12:50 PM local time, followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock about 11 minutes later. The tremors were also felt in neighboring Bangladesh, India, Thailand, China, and Vietnam.

In Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, several multi-story buildings collapsed, leaving over a hundred people missing. So far, 10 bodies have been recovered in Thailand.

Both countries now face significant concerns over massive casualties and economic losses.