The devastating earthquake that struck Burma and Thailand on Friday has resulted in a significant increase in the death toll, reaching over 1,650 victims. The earthquake’s epicenter was located in central Burma, where 1,644 deaths have been confirmed and nearly 140 people are still missing, as reported by the nation’s ruling military on Saturday. The 7.7 magnitude earthquake caused widespread destruction, including the collapse of numerous buildings, bridges, and highways, making it the deadliest natural disaster in the impoverished and war-torn country in years.

Survival efforts were hindered by the lack of heavy machinery and the absence of authorities in Burma’s second-largest city, Mandalay, as survivors desperately tried to rescue those trapped under the rubble. However, Burma’s military rulers permitted the entry of hundreds of foreign rescue personnel on Saturday. Additionally, the quake occurred during Friday prayers, resulting in the collapse of at least 50 mosques across the country, claiming nearly 300 lives. Burma’s opposition National Unity Government initially reported that at least 2,900 buildings, 30 roads, and seven bridges were damaged by the earthquake.

The earthquake has further complicated relief efforts, as the ongoing civil war in Burma has severely disrupted movement and safety within the country. This has raised concerns that the death toll may escalate further. Neighboring Thailand also experienced the earthquake’s impact, with buildings shaking and a skyscraper under construction collapsing in Bangkok, resulting in at least 10 deaths. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated that the country has now returned to normalcy. Aftershocks were reportedly felt in both India and China.

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/death-toll-burma-thailand-earthquake-rises-more-than-1600-victims