Yangon: The death toll from a massive earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand has surpassed 1,600, with rescuers racing against time to pull survivors from collapsed buildings.

The 7.7-magnitude quake, followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock, struck northwest of Sagaing in central Myanmar early Friday afternoon, devastating towns and cities, including Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city.

Rising Death Toll and Destruction
At least 1,644 people have been confirmed dead in Myanmar, with over 3,400 injured and 139 missing, according to the ruling junta. Bangkok has also reported at least 10 fatalities. Communication disruptions have made it difficult to assess the full extent of the disaster, but officials warn the toll is expected to rise.

In Mandalay, AFP journalists witnessed dramatic rescue efforts as teams pulled Phyu Lay Khaing, 30, alive from the rubble of Sky Villa Condominium, a 12-storey building that partially collapsed. However, dozens of people, including a 20-year-old man, remain trapped under debris.

Throughout the city, monasteries, bridges, and roads were heavily damaged. Some residents, fearing aftershocks, slept outdoors, unwilling to risk staying inside quake-damaged buildings.

Myanmar Junta Seeks Foreign Aid
In a rare move, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has appealed for international aid, declaring a state of emergency in six affected regions. The government has opened its doors to foreign assistance, a stark contrast to previous military regimes that often rejected outside help after disasters.

India and China have responded quickly, with India delivering initial aid and China dispatching over 80 rescuers along with $13.8 million in emergency funds. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has also pledged support.

Impact on Relief Efforts
The disaster comes amid a four-year civil war, which has already devastated Myanmar’s infrastructure and healthcare system. With over 3.5 million people displaced by conflict, the country was already facing severe humanitarian challenges before the earthquake.

Reports indicate Mandalay Airport sustained damage, further complicating rescue and relief efforts. In Naypyidaw, medics have been forced to treat the injured in the open air due to hospital damage.

Bangkok Building Collapse
Across the border in Bangkok, Thailand, a 30-storey skyscraper under construction collapsed due to the quake, killing at least eight and injuring many more. 79 people remain missing.

Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt reported that sniffer dogs and thermal imaging drones are being used to locate survivors. City authorities have received over 2,000 reports of building damage, prompting inspections across the city.

As rescue teams continue their search, the scale of devastation in Myanmar and Thailand remains uncertain, with officials fearing the worst in the coming days.