Myanmar Earthquake: Search and Rescue Efforts Amidst Information Blackout

Earthquake Aftermath in Myanmar

• 💔 The military junta confirmed 700 deaths in Mandalay, with at least 1,600 injured or missing following yesterday's earthquake.
• ⚠️ Information from Myanmar is slow and preliminary due to the junta's tight grip on information since seizing control.
• ✋ Reports indicate people are being treated outside hospitals, and some rescue efforts involve digging survivors out of collapsed structures with bare hands.

Thailand Earthquake Impact and Fears

• 🏗️ At a collapsed skyscraper construction site in Thailand, 100 people are potentially trapped, with at least six confirmed dead.
• ⏱️ The government has dedicated 72 hours to the search and rescue effort at the construction site.
• 🏠 Deep-seated fear exists in Thailand as cracks have appeared in homes and offices, leading to uncertainty about building safety.
• ⚠️ While the Prime Minister stated completed buildings are safe, those under construction require inspection.

Public Response and Resumed Services

• 🌳 In Bangkok, the governor opened city parks for 24-hour access, where many people camped out overnight despite being told they could return home.
• 🚆 Public transit was shut down during the earthquake, causing traffic jams, but airports and most public transit have resumed normal service.
• 🚶 Many people have reportedly left Bangkok even after being cleared to return to their homes.