Early Friday, an intense earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, and its tremors were felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand, approximately 800 miles (1,300 kilometers) distant. Two cities in Myanmar bore the brunt of the powerful quake, resulting in significant destruction. Images from Naypyidaw, the capital, illustrated rescue workers extracting individuals from the debris of collapsed structures. In Bangkok, fatalities were reported at three construction sites, including a skyscraper that fell.
Experts attributed the quake to the Sagaing Fault, noting it occurred close to the Earth’s surface, which intensified the seismic activity. Initial evaluations by the U.S. Geological Survey indicated that about 800,000 individuals in Myanmar might have been in the area of most intense shaking, with potential death tolls possibly exceeding 1,000.
Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon resulting from the movement of the Earth’s crust, which is divided into several large plates called tectonic plates. These plates fit together much like a jigsaw puzzle and are mostly stable, but they move along their boundaries. Columbia University geophysicist Michael Steckler explains that when these sliding plates become lodged, pressure builds up over years or even centuries until the plates suddenly slip, causing an earthquake. Such events are typically found along the edges of tectonic plates, although their impact can be felt across wider regions.
Earthquakes that occur over the ocean often go unnoticed, but those occurring near populated areas can lead to casualties and injuries, primarily from building collapses. While scientists can identify zones susceptible to earthquakes, predicting the exact timing remains elusive. According to USGS seismologist Will Yeck, researchers can forecast the likelihood of aftershocks — smaller tremors following the main quake — due to the changes in Earth’s stress levels from the primary event. Steckler suggests that given the magnitude of Myanmar’s earthquake, aftershocks could persist for several months.
For those caught indoors during an earthquake, the appropriate response depends on regional building standards. In countries like the United States and Japan, where seismic activity is anticipated, construction codes are often designed with earthquake resilience in mind. Yeck advises that during an earthquake, individuals should crouch to the ground, shield their heads, ideally under a desk or other robust piece of furniture, and hold on to it. It’s crucial to avoid glass windows and refrain from using elevators. If outdoors, it’s best to stay clear of buildings and trees that may topple. Furthermore, secondary hazards like landslides, fires, and tsunamis may follow an earthquake, depending on the location.