The Mekong Institute (MI) extends its deepest sympathies to the people of Myanmar and Thailand following the catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday, March 28, 2025. The earthquake, the strongest to hit Myanmar in over a century, sent tremors rippling across the region, reaching neighboring Thailand and China^[1]

This tragic event has already claimed the lives of more than 2,700 people in Myanmar, with thousands more injured and hundreds still unaccounted for. The toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.^[2]

In Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, over 1,000 kilometers from the earthquake’s epicenter, the tremor shook buildings and caused an under-construction high-rise to collapse, prompting authorities to declare an emergency zone. The death toll rose to 21, with significant damage reported to hundreds of structures. Rescue teams searched for survivors in the wreckage but warned that time was running out. ^[3]

The earthquake, with its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, struck around midday local time, shaking the region before a powerful 6.4-magnitude aftershock followed.^[4] While Myanmar is considered a high-risk region for seismic activity, the earthquake’s impact in Thailand—a country not typically affected by major earthquakes—has underscored the urgent need for enhanced earthquake preparedness.

In light of this tragedy, MI commends the bravery and resilience of affected communities and the tireless efforts of emergency responders and humanitarian agencies providing immediate relief. MI recognizes the urgent need for collaborative efforts in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

MI is actively assessing ways to support rehabilitation initiatives, including knowledge-sharing on disaster resilience, post-disaster recovery strategies, and regional cooperation for crisis preparedness. This catastrophic event has reinforced the necessity of integrating earthquake-resistant infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and community-level disaster response mechanisms into national and regional development agendas.

Now more than ever, collective action is vital. MI urges its network of partners and stakeholders to join efforts in supporting the affected communities and contributing to the ongoing relief operations and the subsequent recovery.

Staying informed about how to protect yourself during and after an earthquake is crucial. Knowing the right actions to take can help reduce injuries and increase the chances of survival. Here are key safety tips to follow during and after an earthquake. 

What to Do During an Earthquake:

• • Drop, Cover, and Hold: If indoors, take cover under sturdy furniture and stay away from windows.

• • Stay Indoors: Avoid doorways and exterior walls; do not run outside.

• • If Outside, Move to Open Space: Stay away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.

• • If Driving, Stop Safely: Pull over to a safe location away from overpasses, bridges, and power lines.

• • Expect Aftershocks: Be prepared for possible strong aftershocks following the main quake.

 

What to Do After an Earthquake:

• • Check for Injuries: Provide first aid if necessary and seek medical help for serious injuries.

• • Be Prepared for Aftershocks: Move cautiously as aftershocks can cause further damage.

• • Inspect Your Surroundings: Check for structural damage, gas leaks, and electrical hazards before re-entering buildings.

• • Stay Informed: Follow local authorities for updates and instructions.

• • Follow Evacuation Orders: If instructed by authorities, move to designated evacuation sites.

• • Avoid Using Open Flames: If you suspect a gas leak, do not light matches or turn on electrical switches.

• • Help Others: Assist neighbors, especially the elderly, disabled, or those in need.

• • Use Phones for Emergencies Only: Keep communication lines open for rescue efforts.

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^[1] https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/28/world/gallery/myanmar-thailand-china-quake/index.html

^[2] https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyqe7g077lo

^[3] https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/survivors-myanmar-quake-left-without-food-water-shelter-aid-groups-say-2025-04-01/

^[4] https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/mar/28/myanmar-earthquake-thailand-bangkok-mandalay-latest-news-update