A massive 7.7 earthquake just hit Myanmar – here's what we know so far

A powerful earthquake rocked central Myanmar today (March 28), sending shockwaves as far as Bangkok and Chiang Mai in neighbouring Thailand.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake measured 7.7 on the Richter scale, striking 16 kilometres north northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, the capital city of Sagaing Region and a popular destination for day-trippers from the ancient royal capital, Mandalay. The area was hit by a second of 6.4-magnitude about 12 minutes after the initial quake. 

The 91-year-old Sagaing Bridge (The Ava Bridge) has collapsed into the Irrawady River. The Straits Times also reported collapsed buildings in Mandalay and buckled roads in the capital Naypyitaw. Thankfully, there have been no reports of casualties so far, but that could change as authorities get a clearer read of the situation. 

Making the rounds on social media are also scenes of panic in Bangkok, where residents felt seismic waves strong enough to send water splashing out of swimming pools and an ongoing skyscraper build tumbling. 

Is it safe to travel to Myanmar?

It's best to refrain from travelling to Myanmar. The immediate danger from the earthquake is over, but it's not uncommon for aftershocks to happen days or weeks after the initial quake.

Myanmar is also in the middle of a civil war. Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs cites the "ongoing security situation" in Myanmar, advising its nationals from unnecessary travel to Myanmar and for those in the country to leave as soon as possible. 

Are earthquakes common in Myanmar?

Yes, earthquakes are pretty common in Myanmar. It sits within the Alpide belt, the second-most seismically active region in the world after the Pacific Ring of Fire. The Sunda Megathrust and the Sagaing Fault are two major sources of earthquakes in Myanmar. The latter, which is responsible for today's earthquake, runs through the centre of the country and passes under populated cities like the capital Naypyidaw, Mandalay, Yamethin, and Pyinmana. 

It's a different story in Thailand. Its nearest fault lines are in Myanmar and Indonesia, making the country a low-risk earthquake zone. This might explain the huge panic caused by the strong tremors in Bangkok and Chiang Mai today. 

What should I do during an earthquake?

The USGS has comprehensive advice on what to do during an earthquake here. To boil it down:

• Stay indoors and find cover (under a chair or table) or something to hold on to 
• If outside, find an open space away from buildings, trees, power lines, or anything that could fall on you
• Stop driving and park in a clear, open space. Remain in your vehicle
• Watch out for falling rocks and debris in mountainous areas 
• Familiarise yourself with tsunami safety rules 

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