Strong Earthquake Shakes Bangkok and Myanmar

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Bangkok, Thailand, originating from Myanmar. It caused buildings to sway but reports indicate no immediate damage or casualties. Residents evacuated high-rises and sought shade in the streets following the tremor. The earthquake’s effects in Myanmar, amidst ongoing civil turmoil, have not yet been reported.

A significant 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday, prompting many buildings to sway. According to the GFZ center for geosciences in Germany, the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) with its epicenter located in neighboring Myanmar. Initial reports indicate that there were no immediate damages or casualties arising from the event.

The greater Bangkok area, which houses over 17 million residents, witnessed an evacuation of numerous buildings as they trembled. Startled occupants of high-rise condominiums and hotels emerged into the streets, seeking refuge from the midday sun in the aftermath of the quake.

The quake’s intensity was such that it caused water to slosh out of pools located in high-rise buildings, indicating a powerful tremor. The epicenter was identified in central Myanmar, approximately 50 kilometers (30 miles) from the city of Monywa; however, there were no immediate assessments of its impact in Myanmar, which is currently embroiled in civil conflict.

In summary, a strong earthquake of 7.7 magnitude significantly affected Bangkok on Friday, causing widespread alarm amongst the over 17 million inhabitants, though initial reports suggest no damage or casualties. The tremor, originating from Myanmar, prompted evacuations in high-rise buildings and created notable disturbances such as water displacement in pools. Further assessments regarding the earthquake’s impact in Myanmar remain pending.

Original Source: www.cbsnews.com