7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Bangkok and Nearby Myanmar

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Bangkok, Thailand, originating from Myanmar. The tremor led to buildings swaying, prompting evacuations in the densely populated area. No immediate reports of damage or casualties have emerged, and the epicenter was situated about 50 kilometers east of Monywa, Myanmar.

On Friday, a significant earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck Bangkok, Thailand, leading to noticeable shaking of buildings. According to Germany’s GFZ center for geosciences, the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, with its epicenter located in Myanmar.

Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties following this incident. The greater Bangkok area, which accommodates over 17 million residents, features numerous high-rise structures that felt the tremor, prompting many inhabitants to evacuate.

In the aftermath, startled residents exited their condominiums and hotels, gathering in central Bangkok’s streets to escape the swaying buildings while seeking relief from the midday heat. The quake was sufficiently strong that water was observed splashing out of swimming pools in elevated high-rises.

The earthquake’s epicenter was determined to be in central Myanmar, approximately 50 kilometers east of Monywa. As the nation continues to endure the challenges of civil unrest, there have been no immediate assessments of the quake’s effects in Myanmar.

In summary, the powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Bangkok on Friday, causing significant yet manageable disruptions, particularly among residents of high-rise buildings. With no immediate reports of damage or casualties, the impact seems contained, although the epicenter was located in Myanmar amidst ongoing civil unrest. The event highlights the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity, impacting millions living in close proximity.

Original Source: www.cbsnews.com