A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, causing widespread destruction and turning a major hospital in Naypyidaw into a "mass casualty area." The quake, followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock, toppled buildings, collapsed the well-known Ava bridge, and ruptured roads. Myanmar’s military junta, already grappling with ongoing conflict, declared a state of emergency in six regions and made a rare plea for international aid. Hospitals were overwhelmed with casualties, with many being treated outside due to structural damage.

Across the border in Thailand, the earthquake triggered the collapse of a 30-storey skyscraper under construction in Bangkok, killing at least three workers and trapping dozens more. Emergency teams were scrambling to rescue survivors from the rubble, as officials estimated that hundreds might be injured. The tremors also caused panic in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, where frightened residents rushed outdoors, experiencing one of the strongest quakes in recent memory.

In response to the disaster, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared an emergency zone in Bangkok, suspending metro and light rail services, worsening the city’s already congested traffic. Myanmar's junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, visited the affected hospital, underscoring the severity of the situation. As rescue operations continue in both countries, officials fear that the death toll and damage could rise significantly.