A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar at around 12:20 PM local time on Friday, triggering widespread devastation across both Myanmar and neighboring Thailand. Initial reports suggest that more than 100 people may have lost their lives, though exact figures remain unconfirmed as rescue operations are ongoing.

The epicenter of the quake was located just 16 kilometers from Sagaing, in northwestern Myanmar, approximately 100 kilometers north of the capital Naypyidaw. The violent tremor caused significant damage across the region, toppling buildings and trapping residents under the rubble. Multiple aftershocks followed, sending waves of panic across nearby towns and cities.

According to a member of a rescue team currently working in Myanmar’s Mandalay region, the extent of damage is severe. Speaking to BBC Burmese, he stated, "The destruction is overwhelming, and we fear the death toll could be very high. All we can confirm right now is that the numbers are well over a hundred."

Emergency response teams are racing against time to locate and rescue survivors trapped under debris. Communication networks in several parts of the affected regions have been disrupted, adding to the challenges faced by rescue workers.

The earthquake’s effects weren’t limited to Myanmar. In Thailand, the tremor was strongly felt in the capital city, Bangkok. Several buildings in the city sustained damage, with reports confirming that some have completely collapsed. The most alarming incident occurred at a construction site where a multi-story building came crashing down due to the tremors. A video capturing the dramatic moment went viral on social media, showing the terrifying collapse as workers scrambled to safety.

Authorities in Thailand have confirmed that at least 70 construction workers are missing in connection with the building collapse. Search and rescue teams have been deployed to the site, as families and loved ones wait anxiously for news of the missing.

The sudden disaster has sent shockwaves through both countries, prompting immediate responses from national disaster management agencies. Hospitals in the affected zones have been placed on high alert, and temporary shelters are being set up for those displaced.

While Myanmar has experienced several moderate quakes in recent years, Friday's 7.7 magnitude quake is one of the most powerful to strike the region in decades. Experts warn that aftershocks may continue over the coming days, urging residents in high-risk areas to stay vigilant.

As international aid organizations prepare to offer support, both Myanmar and Thailand face the enormous task of recovery and rebuilding amid the trauma and uncertainty left in the earthquake’s wake. The true scale of this natural disaster is still unfolding, but its impact is already being felt across the borders.