Strong Earthquake Causes Collapses in Thailand

The epicenter of the earthquake was located in Myanmar, but tremors were felt in several parts of Thailand, particularly in the capital. In Bangkok, people rushed out of buildings and into the streets. A 7.7 magnitude earthquake occurred in Myanmar, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Tremors were also felt in Thailand.

The epicenter of the earthquake in Myanmar was 16 kilometers from the city of Sagaing, at a depth of 10 kilometers. A few minutes later, an aftershock measuring 6.9 magnitude was recorded. Bangkok Post reports that a 4.2 magnitude earthquake occurred in northern Thailand, and a construction site in the Chatuchak district of Bangkok has collapsed.

Associated Press reports that skyscrapers in Thailand's capital were evacuated due to the earthquake. Thousands of people evacuated from buildings and hotels continue to remain on the streets.

Thailand's Prime Minister, Prasert Chantharakh, has declared a state of emergency in Bangkok following the powerful earthquake in neighboring Myanmar. This was reported by Agence France-Presse.

The China Earthquake Administration has assessed the earthquake's strength at 7.9 magnitude. Tremors have been felt in neighboring China and Thailand. Specifically in Bangkok, a construction building has collapsed, and residents of the capital’s skyscrapers have been urged to leave their homes.