A powerful earthquake in Myanmar has claimed over 1,600 lives, and the death toll is expected to increase. The 7.7-magnitude quake struck on Friday, causing extensive damage. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors among the rubble.

Earthquake Hits with Devastating Aftershocks

The earthquake hit near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, at 1:30 p.m. local time. Eleven minutes later, a 6.7-magnitude aftershock followed. A third tremor, measuring 5.1 magnitude, was recorded near Naypyidaw, Myanmar’s capital. The tremors not only devastated Myanmar but also impacted Thailand, where several people died and many remain missing.

Collapse in Thailand

In Thailand, a 30-story building in Bangkok collapsed, trapping many under debris. Both Myanmar and Thailand have mobilized rescue teams, using drones, dogs, and heavy equipment to search for survivors. However, in Myanmar, rescuers face significant challenges in reaching victims trapped in collapsed buildings, making their efforts urgent.

Severe Damage Across Myanmar

Videos verified by NBC News show the massive destruction in Myanmar. Key structures, including a Buddhist monastery in Pindaya and a clock tower in Mandalay, collapsed. Hospitals are overwhelmed with injured people, and Myanmar’s military government declared a state of emergency in the hardest-hit regions, including Mandalay and Naypyidaw.

Ongoing Search for Survivors in Mandalay

In Mandalay, rescue operations continue with a focus on locating survivors. Authorities reported detecting signs of life from 15 people trapped under the rubble. Rescue teams are working around the clock, with reports of people still trapped in collapsed high-rises in Mandalay.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The economic impact of the earthquake is expected to be severe. The International Rescue Committee warned that losses could exceed Myanmar’s entire GDP. Before the quake, more than 19 million people in Myanmar were already in urgent need of aid. The disaster has deepened the country’s humanitarian crisis.

International Aid Mobilized

International assistance has already begun to arrive. Russia sent two planes with 120 rescuers and essential supplies. Meanwhile, China dispatched a 37-member team to Yangon, bringing medical equipment and life-detection tools. These teams are working alongside local search-and-rescue crews.

Projected Death Toll and Economic Losses

The USGS estimates the death toll could surpass 10,000, with economic losses potentially exceeding Myanmar’s GDP. As of Saturday afternoon, Myanmar’s state media reported 3,408 people injured and 139 missing. The full extent of the damage may take weeks to fully assess.

Rescue Operations Continue Relentlessly

Despite significant challenges, search-and-rescue operations are ongoing. Myanmar’s military government has opened routes for foreign assistance, accepting help from neighboring countries and international organizations. As the teams continue their efforts, their priority remains to save as many lives as possible in the wake of the disaster.