A powerful magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday at lunchtime, causing widespread devastation and claiming over 140 lives. The quake, centered near Mandalay—the country's second-largest city—toppled buildings and severely damaged infrastructure across a broad area. Its tremors were felt in neighboring regions including Thailand, the Chinese mainland, and Laos.
Myanmar's State Administration Council Chairman, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, warned that more casualties were likely and called on "any country" to provide assistance. In a rapid humanitarian response, the Chinese mainland dispatched a 37-member medical rescue team via a chartered flight from Kunming, Yunnan Province, to support relief efforts in the affected areas.
U.S. officials also confirmed coordination of disaster relief measures. At the White House, President Donald Trump noted that communications with Myanmar representatives are ongoing and affirmed that USAID disaster experts stand ready to deliver essential supplies such as food and potable water.
This catastrophic event underscores the importance of global solidarity as communities and aid agencies rally together, demonstrating that in times of crisis, rapid international cooperation can make all the difference.
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Earthquake kills over 140 in Myanmar, sparks global aid response
cgtn.com
