The 7.7 magnitude quake struck in central Myanmar around 10 miles north-west of the city of Sagaing early on Friday afternoon, and is understood to have caused widespread damage and disruption – including in its capital, Naypyidaw.
Reports in the national press indicate the quake was felt across large swathes of Thailand too, as well as south-west China and Laos.
Myanmar has been under military rule since 2021 making it hard to ascertain the situation on the ground, although a rescue worker operating in Mandalay told the BBC they feared "enormous damage".
In Thailand, several high-rise buildings in Bangkok have been damaged – including one that was under construction which collapsed, trapping dozens of workers. Thai prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has declared the capital an emergency zone.
Tourism Thailand has issued a bulletin confirming all airports in Thailand remain operational at this time, with no reported disruptions to flight operations. Airports of Thailand has completed inspections at six airports to confirm their structural integrity.
There have, though, been impacts on other transport networks in the country. Rail services between Krung Thep Aphiwat central station and Rangsit may face delays due to structural inspections on elevated tracks. Safety checks are ongoing.
Several of Bangkok’s MRT – Metropolitan Rapid Transit – lines have been temporarily suspended, including its Blue and Purple lines, plus the BTS Skytrain.
The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for both Thailand and Myanmar. "There has been a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, with strong tremors reported across Thailand and some damage reported to buildings in Bangkok," read the update.
"There may be after-shocks. If you’re in the area or planning to travel there, follow the advice of the local authorities or your tour operator and monitor local media."
The update for Myanmar confirmed the epicentre as Sagaing near Mandalay City. "Other areas may be affected. Mandalay airport is reportedly closed. There may be several strong after-shocks. If you’re in the area or planning to travel there, follow the advice of the local authorities and monitor local media."
