- Powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake kills around 1,700 in Myanmar.
- Rescue efforts struggle as extreme heat and aftershocks continue.
- Ongoing civil war worsens crisis, millions already displaced.
A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar on Friday, killing around 1,700 people and causing widespread destruction. The quake released energy equal to over 300 atomic bombs, according to geologist Jess Phoenix. She warned that aftershocks could continue for months as the Indian tectonic plate keeps pushing against the Eurasian plate.
The earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, followed minutes later by a strong 6.7-magnitude aftershock. Many buildings collapsed, roads cracked, and bridges were destroyed, making rescue operations very difficult.
Rescue teams are still searching for survivors, but hopes are fading as the temperature reaches nearly 40 degrees Celsius (104°F). Many people have been sleeping outside for days, fearing more tremors. The heat is also making it harder for workers to recover bodies.
A heartbreaking incident occurred when rescuers spent over 55 hours trying to save a pregnant woman trapped under rubble. They had to amputate her leg to free her, but she lost too much blood and died shortly after.
On Monday, Muslim worshipers gathered near a destroyed mosque to pray for Eid al-Fitr. Funerals for hundreds of victims are also expected to take place.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has launched an emergency appeal for over $100 million to help Myanmar’s earthquake victims. With rising temperatures and the monsoon season approaching, the country faces the risk of more disasters.
Even before the earthquake, Myanmar was struggling with a civil war that began after a military coup in 2021. The country had over 3.5 million displaced people, many already at risk of hunger. Reports say some fighting continued even after the quake, making the crisis worse.
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