Around 6.3 million people live in the worst-affected areas, where homes, infrastructure and essential services have been destroyed. Airports in Mandalay and Nay Pyi Daw are closed, hampering relief efforts, though Yangon Airport remains operational for incoming aid. The Myanmar authorities have formally requested international assistance, and rescue operations are underway.

Thailand has also suffered significant damage, particularly in Bangkok, where a high-rise construction collapse has killed at least 10 people, with dozens still missing. The Thai government has declared a state of emergency in the capital, launching rescue and structural assessment operations. Airports and hospitals remain functional, but concerns over structural damage persist.

While the earthquake has affected multiple countries, the scale of devastation in Myanmar, combined with existing humanitarian needs, means the majority of the response will focus there, with efforts underway to provide life-saving assistance.

*Photography courtesy of Lutheran World Federation and NAG (Network Action Group Myanmar), used with permission