Myanmar earthquake What we know In Myanmar's 'Abode of Kings', earthquake hits home of military power

On March 28, 2025, a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar's Sagaing Region near Mandalay, causing widespread destruction and loss of life

Casualties and Damage

As of April 2, the death toll has surpassed 2,700, with over 4,500 injuries reported. The earthquake severely impacted cities such as Mandalay, Naypyidaw, and Sagaing, leading to the collapse of numerous buildings, including government structures, religious sites, and residential areas. In Mandalay, significant damage occurred, with reports of structural collapses and fires. The capital, Naypyidaw, also experienced substantial destruction, prompting the military junta to appeal for international aid.

Rescue and Relief Efforts

Rescue operations have been hampered by damaged infrastructure and ongoing civil conflict. Despite these challenges, there have been instances of survivors being found days after the quake. For example, a 26-year-old man was rescued from the rubble of a hotel in Naypyidaw five days post-disaster. International aid teams from countries including China, Russia, and India have arrived to assist, but progress remains slow due to logistical difficulties

Humanitarian Concerns

The earthquake has exacerbated Myanmar's existing humanitarian crisis, with millions already displaced due to ongoing conflicts. There are growing concerns about potential disease outbreaks due to damaged infrastructure and overcrowded shelters. The looming monsoon season adds urgency to relief efforts, as survivors require adequate shelter and resources. The World Health Organization has emphasized the overwhelming impact on healthcare services, with additional deaths resulting from delays in rescue and emergency assistance.

International Response

he United Nations has called for increased aid to Myanmar before the monsoon season intensifies, highlighting the need for food, water, and shelter for the affected populations. The military government's rare appeal for international assistance reflects the severity of the situation, as they continue to face challenges in managing the disaster's aftermath. ​

WHO response to Myanmar Earthquake 2025

On 28 March 2025, two powerful earthquakes struck central Myanmar’s Sagaing Region near Mandalay. The first, with a magnitude of 7.7, occurred at 12:50 p.m. local time, followed by a second of magnitude 6.4 at 1:02 p.m. Multiple aftershocks have since been reported, disrupting ongoing rescue operations. As of 30 March 2025, the State Administration in Myanmar have reported 1644 deaths and 3408 injuries. Critical infrastructure including health facilities, roads, bridges and communication networks infrastructure has been severely damaged, with three hospitals in Nay Pyi Taw and Bago fully damaged. Preliminary assessments indicate high numbers of casualties and trauma-related injuries, with an urgent need for emergency care. WHO South-East Asia has activated an Incident Management Support Team (IMST) and is working in close coordination with the WHO Country Office in Myanmar, WHO headquarters, and health partners. Aligned with WHO’s Emergency Response Framework, an organization-wide response has been launched, with incident management teams mobilized across all three levels of WHO. US$ 5 million has been released from WHO’s Contingency Fund for Emergencies to rapidly scale-up operations and support lifesaving health interventions. Within 24 hours of the disaster, WHO dispatched nearly three tons of trauma kits, medical supplies, and multipurpose tents from its emergency stockpile in Yangon to hospitals in Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw. Additional critical medical supplies are prepositioned and ready for dispatch from WHO’s Dubai Logistics Hub. A flash-appeal has been released for US$ 8 million to deliver critical trauma care, prevent disease outbreaks, and restore essential health services over the next 30 days. WHO is issuing Situation Reports and disseminating key public health advice in the aftermath of the earthquake through various communication channels.