Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK This Morning: Powerful Earthquake in Thailand and Myanmar.
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar today (Friday), but was felt strongly in Thailand – including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and other areas.
The epicenter of the quake was about 50 km east of the city of Moniwa, at a shallow depth of just 10 km – causing severe tremors even outside Myanmar's borders.
In Bangkok, reports indicated the collapse of a construction site near the Chatuchak market, after being seen in footage collapsing inward and creating a heavy dust cloud. Police and local forces were called to the scene and conducted searches.
Authorities in the city ordered an immediate evacuation of tall buildings and instructed people to stay out of buildings until further notice. In Chiang Mai, there was also unusual movement of residents who voluntarily evacuated buildings due to the tremors.
Thai Prime Minister, Phatongtarn Shinawatra, convened an emergency meeting with rescue, defense, and interior officials, in an attempt to prepare for aftershocks and prevent public panic.
Authorities are calling on residents to heed guidelines, avoid staying in unstable buildings, and stay informed through official channels.
Myanmar:
In the city of Mandalay, a mosque collapsed, resulting in at least 20 casualties.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand in Israel is closely monitoring developments following the earthquake felt today in Thailand and its surroundings and is in contact with authorities. They recommend that Israelis in Thailand send reassuring messages to their families at home and heed the guidelines of local authorities and security bodies.
From the 'Sawadee Club' of Thailand lovers in Israel it was said: "We send our concern and love to the Thai people at this time, our condolences to the victims and ask community members to assist Thais as much as possible in these moments. The AI service on WhatsApp of the club, 'Sawadee Club AI', allows updates and feedback with artificial intelligence about the situation in Thailand. Direct link to start a chat with it.
