A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, causing widespread destruction and panic across the region. The epicenter was near Mandalay, leading to the collapse of buildings, severe infrastructural damage, and a rising death toll. At least 144 people have been confirmed dead, while over 700 others have been injured. Authorities fear that the numbers could rise as rescue operations continue.

The tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand, where a 33-story building under construction collapsed, trapping more than 100 people under the debris. Emergency responders are working tirelessly to locate and rescue those still trapped. Search teams are using sniffer dogs and drones to navigate through the rubble in an effort to save as many lives as possible. At least eight laborers have been confirmed dead in the collapse.

Eyewitnesses described moments of terror as the ground shook violently. A British tourist in Bangkok, Tiffany Man, recounted how she and her mother barely escaped from their hotel laundry room as walls began to crack. Similarly, Irish expatriate Leona Kelly described the panic among children and locals as buildings trembled and debris fell around them.

In Myanmar, the situation remains dire. With ongoing civil unrest, communication has been severely disrupted, making it difficult for relief teams to coordinate efforts. The ruling military junta has declared a state of emergency in six regions and has appealed for international assistance to manage the crisis. Roads have been blocked due to landslides, further complicating rescue missions.

Neighboring countries, including China, have felt the quake's impact. Several injuries and infrastructure damages have been reported in Yunnan and Sichuan provinces. In response, the United Nations has allocated $5 million in initial relief funds, while various humanitarian agencies have stepped in to provide aid and medical support.

Authorities have warned of potential aftershocks and urged residents to remain vigilant. As relief efforts continue, emergency workers and volunteers are racing against time to rescue survivors and provide aid to those affected by the disaster. The full extent of the damage is yet to be determined, but the earthquake has already left a lasting impact on the region.