A powerful earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, early Friday, registering a magnitude of 7.7. Tremors from this quake were felt all the way in Bangkok, approximately 800 miles away. Sadly, two cities in Myanmar were significantly affected, with reports of extensive damage. In the capital city of Naypyidaw, rescue teams worked tirelessly to retrieve victims trapped under the remains of collapsed structures. In Bangkok, there were confirmed fatalities at three construction sites, one of which involved a high-rise building that fell.
Experts explained that this earthquake occurred along the Sagaing Fault at a shallow depth, leading to significant seismic activity. According to initial assessments by the U.S. Geological Survey, nearly 800,000 individuals in Myanmar may have experienced the strongest shaking. The death toll is anticipated to exceed 1,000, and further increases are likely as rescue efforts continue.
Understanding earthquakes is crucial for many regions around the world. They happen along tectonic plate boundaries where pressure builds up as plates move against each other. When the stress becomes too great, it can cause the plates to shift suddenly, resulting in the shaking we associate with earthquakes. This is especially critical in areas like Myanmar and parts of Southeast Asia, where seismic activity is common.
Scientists have developed ways to forecast which areas may face earthquakes based on historical data, but predicting the exact timing remains elusive. After a significant earthquake like the one in Myanmar, it’s common for aftershocks to occur, which can continue for months as the earth adjusts.
In terms of safety, guidance for what to do during an earthquake depends on the location. In places with active fault lines, construction codes often account for earthquake resilience, yet this is not universal. During shaking, individuals indoors are advised to drop, cover their heads, and hold onto sturdy furniture, while those outside should keep away from buildings and trees that could collapse.
As we process information about this tragic event, our thoughts remain with the victims and their families. Strengthening our understanding of earthquakes will be vital in ensuring communities are prepared for such natural disasters in the future.
