Powerful Earthquake Hits Myanmar and Thailand, Causing Widespread Damage

On March 28, 2025, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing devastating damage and loss of life across the region. The earthquake was so strong that its impact was felt as far as Thailand, China, India, Vietnam, and Bangladesh. In Bangkok, Thailand, the earthquake resulted in a spectacular but alarming sight: water sloshing out of rooftop swimming pools throughout the city.

Terrifying Scenes in Bangkok

The event became a viral sensation on social media platforms, as videos depicted chaotic scenes in high-rise buildings. Water in rooftop infinity pools began to ripple violently as the earthquake hit, forming massive waves that sloshed over the pool's edges. These waves then cascaded down the buildings, creating a dramatic waterfall effect and sweeping people off their feet in a chaotic tsunami-like scene. The situation was particularly precarious for those using the pools, as evidenced by footage of people desperately trying to escape the turbulent waters.

Critical Moments in Bangkok

• Rooftop Pool Chaos: A video from Bangkok's Athenee Hotel showed a tranquil scene turn into chaos. Guests lounging by the poolside and floating on inflatables found themselves scrambling for safety. Water rushed over the pool's edges, flooding lounge chairs and sending torrents of water down onto the streets below[1].
• Public Panic: The scene repeated across other high-rise buildings in Bangkok, with water pouring off rooftops and catching pedestrians off guard. Some were swept off their feet, adding to the panic and chaos as emergency services struggled to respond[3].
• Government Response: Authorities in Bangkok initiated building inspections across the metropolitan area to assess damage and ensure safety. At least 18 people were reported dead in Bangkok, with dozens more injured and missing[4].

Earthquake Aftermath in Myanmar

Myanmar bore the brunt of the disaster, with the earthquake causing widespread destruction. Buildings collapsed, roads were severed, and thousands were believed to be trapped under the rubble. The death toll in Myanmar rose significantly following the disaster, with at least 1,644 people confirmed dead and over 3,400 injured[1].

Rescue Efforts and Challenges

Rescue efforts were hindered by severed communication lines and severely damaged infrastructure. Emergency teams faced challenges in reaching affected areas due to the extensive damage caused by the earthquake and its aftershocks. A major concern also arose due to the lack of access to healthcare services and clean water for survivors[5].

Economic and Humanitarian Crisis

Myanmar is already dealing with a prolonged and bloody civil war, which has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis following the earthquake. The country's military-led government reported that detailed figures were still being collected, suggesting that the death toll could rise further. The combination of the earthquake with ongoing conflict has made relief efforts more complex and dangerous, raising fears of an even higher death toll[5].

International Response

International aid efforts are underway to support both Myanmar and Thailand. Organizations like the Red Cross have noted that the level of devastation from this earthquake, particularly in Myanmar, is unprecedented in recent decades. The global community is coming together to provide emergency aid, medical supplies, and shelter to those affected by the disaster.

Conclusion

The catastrophic event has left both Myanmar and Thailand reeling, with significant economic and humanitarian challenges ahead. As recovery efforts begin, it remains crucial for governments and international organizations to collaborate closely to address the needs of the affected populations and prevent further loss of life.