LIVE | Myanmar earthquake: Death toll jumps to over 1,600 as more bodies recovered
The quake was felt across the region, from India to the west and China to the east, as well as Cambodia and Laos
The death toll from a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar jumped to over 1,600 on Saturday (March 29) as more bodies were pulled from the rubble of the scores of buildings that collapsed when it struck near the country's second-largest city.
Read our special story: Earthquakes don't kill, weak buildings do
The new total of 1,644 is a sharp rise over the 1,002 total announced just hours earlier, underlining the difficulty of confirming casualties over a widespread region and the likelihood that the numbers will continue to grow from Friday's quake. The number of injured increased to 3,408, while the missing figure rose to 139.
Myanmar is in the throes of a prolonged and bloody civil war, which is already responsible for a massive humanitarian crisis. It makes movement around the country both difficult and dangerous, complicating relief efforts and raising fears that the death toll could still rise precipitously.
The earthquake struck midday Friday with an epicentre not far from Mandalay, followed by several aftershocks including one measuring a strong 6.4 magnitude. It sent buildings in many areas toppling to the ground, buckled roads, caused bridges to collapse and burst a dam.
The quake was felt across the region, from India to the west and China to the east, as well as Cambodia and Laos
Six dead in Thailand
In neighbouring Thailand, the quake rocked the greater Bangkok area, home to some 17 million people — many of whom live in high-rise buildings — and other parts of the country.
Bangkok city authorities said so far six people have been found dead, 26 injured and 47 are still missing, most from a construction site near the capital's popular Chatuchak market.
Live Updates
- 29 March 2025 9:55 AM
International relief efforts gather steam
International relief efforts have gathered pace with several countries rushing aid to the earthquake-hit Myanmar.
China dispatched an 82-person rescue team to Myanmar on Saturday. A separate team from Yunnan arrived in Yangon, Myanmar's commercial hub. The Chinese government has pledged 100 million yuan ($13.8 million) in emergency aid, with shipments set to begin on Monday.US President Donald Trump expressed condolences and confirmed that the US would assist Myanmar. "It's terrible... we will be helping," he said, adding that discussions had already taken place.
South Korea’s foreign ministry announced a $2 million humanitarian aid package to support urgent rescue efforts, with the potential for additional assistance if needed.
The World Health Organisation is mobilising trauma supplies from its Dubai logistics hub and has triggered its emergency response, recognising the quake as a significant threat to life and health.
Iran offered its condolences and expressed readiness to assist with humanitarian efforts in both Myanmar and Thailand.
Malaysia will also send 50 rescue personnel to Myanmar to support disaster relief operations. ASEAN is also prepared to assist.
Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto extended condolences and offered assistance, stating they are ready to support recovery efforts.
- 29 March 2025 6:45 AM
VIDEO: India sends relief to Myanmar
India has dispatched 15 tonne of relief material to Myanmar following yesterday's earthquake.
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) March 29, 2025
The relief package includes essential supplies such as tents, sleeping bags, blankets, ready-to-eat meals and generator sets. pic.twitter.com/EZucFzgPDV
