On Friday, Myanmar was struck by a catastrophic earthquake of magnitude 7.7, leading to widespread devastation. According to geologist Jess Phoenix, the quake released energy equivalent to 334 nuclear bomb explosions. He warned that aftershocks could continue to rattle the region for a long time.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake's epicenter was located in Mandalay city, Myanmar, and occurred 10 kilometers deep at midday. Local officials have reported over 1,600 fatalities so far, while USGS estimates suggest the death toll might exceed 10,000.
Energy Equivalent to 334 Nuclear Explosions
Phoenix told CNN that the earthquake released as much energy as 334 nuclear blasts. He also cautioned that aftershocks could persist for months because the Indian tectonic plate is colliding with the Eurasian plate.
The ongoing civil war in Myanmar and communication disruptions have made it difficult for the world to fully grasp the disaster's impact. Phoenix stated that the barriers of civil conflict and communication outages are also hampering relief efforts.
India and China to the Rescue
India has dispatched a medical unit and a rescue team to assist with relief efforts. Essential supplies like blankets, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, sleeping bags, solar lamps, food packets, and kitchen sets have also been sent by India.
A 37-member team from China's Yunnan Province has arrived in Myanmar's capital, Yangon. The team brings life-saving devices, earthquake early warning systems, and drones to provide aid and medical assistance.
Death Toll Reaches 1,600
After Friday’s deadly 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar's capital Naypyidaw, powerful tremors were again felt on Saturday across several states. Another 7.7 magnitude quake hit in Mandalay, pushing the death toll above 1,600 as of Saturday. Despite challenges, rescue teams continued their relentless search the following day.
As foreign rescue teams joined the operations on Saturday, several bodies were recovered. According to a news agency, the head of Myanmar's military government confirmed over 1,644 deaths. The mighty quake severely damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure, leaving many areas still isolated.
Myanmar's military government reported that the death toll from Saturday's quake has surged to 1,644, with at least 2,400 people injured. Rescue operations are in full swing across many areas, although access remains difficult due to damaged roads and bridges.
