Deadly Quake Hits Myanmar: Over 1,600 Dead

Updated: November 27, 2023

Rescuers are desperately searching for survivors in Myanmar after the largest earthquake in more than a century flattened buildings across the country. More than 1,600 people are dead, according to authorities, while the US Geological Survey estimates the death toll could ultimately exceed 10,000.

Rescue teams search through the rubble of collapsed buildings in Myanmar following the devastating earthquake.

Rescue Efforts Hampered

Efforts to locate and rescue survivors have been severely hampered by shortages of heavy machinery needed to move debris. The earthquake, which struck on Friday, has devastated infrastructure across affected regions, making access difficult for emergency responders.

Foreign Aid Arrives

The first overseas support has begun arriving after the ruling military government made a rare plea for international help:

A Chinese rescue team arrived in the country Saturday morning, according to state media
India has sent a rescue and medical team along with urgent aid supplies
Several other countries have pledged assistance as the scale of the disaster becomes clear

"This is one of the most significant earthquakes to hit the region in over a century, and the need for international support is urgent."

Challenges to Disaster Response

Myanmar, one of Asia's poorest nations, is reeling from a civil war sparked by a 2021 military coup. Weak infrastructure makes it ill-equipped to deal with major natural disasters. Aid groups report that communications blackouts and damaged roads are creating significant obstacles to reaching affected communities.

International aid workers begin distribution of emergency supplies in affected areas.

Regional Impact

The quake triggered the collapse of buildings hundreds of miles away. In Bangkok, Thailand, at least 10 people have died with authorities racing to free more than 100 others believed to be trapped under the rubble of an under-construction high-rise. Emergency services have reported detecting signs of life beneath the debris.

Latest Updates

11:30 AM
Death toll rises to 1,658 as more areas become accessible to rescue teams
10:15 AM
First international aid flights land with medical supplies and search equipment
09:20 AM
Thai rescue teams report signs of life detected in Bangkok building collapse
08:45 AM
Military government issues official request for international assistance
07:30 AM
USGS warns final death toll could exceed 10,000 based on population density

How You Can Help

Aid groups are on the ground providing emergency assistance to those affected by the earthquake.

Emergency Medical Aid

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Shelter & Supplies

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Rescue Efforts

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For more information on how you can assist relief efforts, click here.

Searching Rubble in Bangkok

Rescue workers at the site of a collapsed high-rise in Bangkok

Teams working to locate over 100 people believed trapped in the rubble

Emergency services have detected signs of life using specialized equipment

The earthquake's impact extended hundreds of miles from its epicenter, causing a partially constructed high-rise to collapse in Bangkok. At least 10 people have been confirmed dead, with rescue teams working around the clock to reach survivors.

Myanmar Earthquake

Nita