Houston Graduate Sid Simone Survives Bangkok Earthquake Amidst Devastation

Earthquake Strikes Southeast Asia

• devastating earthquake has struck Southeast Asia, resulting in at least 150 deaths and over 700 injuries.
• The quake's epicenter was near Mandlay, Myanmar, causing widespread destruction, including the collapse of mosques and other structures.
• Both Myanmar and Thailand have declared states of emergency as they deal with the aftermath and prepare for potential aftershocks.

University of Houston Graduate's Experience in Bangkok

• Sid Simone, a University of Houston graduate and creator of the vegan travel show "Flavorful," was living in Bangkok when the earthquake occurred.
• Simone described experiencing intense chills and reflecting on the possibility of being caught in the disaster, noting that she was on a train when the jolt happened.
• She realized the vibration was the earthquake after the train stopped, and subsequently witnessed businesses and the train system shutting down.

Navigating the Chaos and Finding Shelter

• ⚠️ Simone encountered significant challenges in leaving the city, including gridlocked traffic and taxi drivers increasing fares.
• She was forced to abandon her taxi on the highway and walk for a considerable distance to find shelter.
• After walking about a mile, she found shelter and her apartment building is currently being checked for structural integrity.

Reflections on Gratitude and Resilience

• Simone expressed profound gratitude for her safety, emphasizing that such catastrophic events highlight the importance of appreciation.
• She noted the added difficulty of navigating the disaster in a foreign country where she does not speak the language.