The earth roared awake before the people did. Just before dawn on Saturday, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake tore through Burma (Myanmar) and northern Thailand, shaking millions out of their sleep and sending waves of panic across the region. What began as a low rumble deep underground erupted into violent, rolling motion that forced families into the streets and left entire cities stunned.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake struck just 10 kilometers below the surface in eastern Burma near the Thai border—alarmingly shallow for a tremor of this size and strong enough to unleash brutal force on the communities above it.
In Yangon, buildings swayed, lights flickered, and windows rattled loudly enough to jolt residents from their beds. People rushed down stairwells barefoot, clutching children and essentials as they braced for aftershocks. Many refused to go back inside, shaken by damage to walls, ceilings, and furniture. Emergency hotlines were instantly overwhelmed as worried families tried to check on loved ones.
Across the border in Chiang Mai, Thailand’s cultural heart, historic temples and old city structures shook violently. Cracked pillars and fallen ornaments were reported within minutes. Markets and late-night venues emptied in seconds as people ran into open areas—the only place that felt safe as the ground continued to tremble.
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