Bangkok, Thailand: A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Thailand and neighboring Myanmar early this morning, causing widespread panic and significant structural damage, including the dramatic collapse of a high-rise building under construction. Authorities are scrambling to assess the situation as emergency response teams rush to the scene, but the full extent of the damage—and potential casualties—remains unclear at this time.
The earthquake, which hit at approximately 6:45 a.m. local time, was centered near the border region between Thailand and Myanmar, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Tremors were felt as far away as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and even parts of Laos and southern China. The sheer force of the quake sent shockwaves through urban centers, toppling structures and disrupting daily life across the region.
Authorities say a high-rise building under construction collapsed after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake rocked Thailand and neighboring Myanmar and possible casualties are not yet known. pic.twitter.com/5UE6HIKcBV
— The Associated Press (@AP) March 28, 2025
In Thailand’s capital, the most alarming incident occurred when a multi-story building, still in the construction phase, buckled under the seismic pressure and collapsed in a cloud of dust and debris. Eyewitnesses described a deafening roar as the skeletal framework gave way, sending construction materials crashing to the ground. “It happened so fast,” said Somchai Kittisak, a local resident. “One moment it was standing, and then it was just gone. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
Emergency services have cordoned off the area, and rescue teams are working cautiously amid fears of aftershocks. Authorities have yet to confirm whether workers or passersby were trapped beneath the rubble, as the site was active with construction crews in the days leading up to the disaster. “We’re doing everything we can to search for survivors,” said Police Colonel Anuwat Phromsopa. “But right now, it’s too early to know how many people might have been affected.”
The quake has raised concerns about the structural integrity of other buildings in the region, particularly those still under construction or built to outdated standards. Thailand is not typically known as a seismic hotspot, making this event a rare and devastating occurrence. Experts warn that aftershocks could further complicate rescue efforts and exacerbate the damage.
As the situation unfolds, officials are urging residents to stay alert and avoid damaged areas while they work to determine the full scope of this tragedy. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
