Following a devastating earthquake in central Myanmar, the Church in neighboring Thailand is assessing the damage and showing solidarity as Bangkok declares the city a disaster zone.
By Chainarong Monthienvichienchai, LiCAS News
An intense earthquake hit central Myanmar, causing shockwaves that reverberated through Bangkok and northern Thailand. The impact was felt as high-rise buildings swayed, rooftop pools overflowed onto the streets, and hospitals evacuated patients as a safety measure.
Startled residents and office workers hurried down staircases in densely populated areas while emergency sirens blared across the capital.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, at a shallow depth, triggering several minor aftershocks. The tremors were strongly felt in central and northern Thailand, including Bangkok, where roads buckled and buildings suffered damage.
In the aftermath, cracks appeared in some structures, raising concerns about their safety. High-rise buildings in Bangkok shook violently, prompting occupants to evacuate to safety. Hospitals, like the 387-bed St. Louis Hospital, decided to move patients to ensure their well-being.
Despite the chaos, the nursing graduates and medical staff at St. Louis Hospital worked tirelessly to care for patients, showing remarkable dedication in the face of adversity.
Patients were allowed to return to their rooms once the situation was evaluated. Schools conducting summer programs also evacuated students to outdoor assembly areas for pickup by parents.
The earthquake caused widespread panic in Bangkok, leading to the temporary closure of the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems for safety checks. City officials declared Bangkok a disaster zone to coordinate emergency aid efforts.
One witness, Renuka Maleevat, described the fear and chaos that ensued, highlighting the terrifying experience of the earthquake.
Meanwhile, in Myanmar, the earthquake caused significant destruction, especially in Mandalay and surrounding regions. Fr. Justin MYN, SJ, reported extensive damage in Taungoo City, south of Mandalay.
Despite being closer to the epicenter, cities in northern Thailand like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai reported no major damage or casualties. Archbishop Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana confirmed the minimal impact in Chiang Mai, where he was for a Catechist Summer Program.
As aftershocks persist, authorities in Thailand and Myanmar are on high alert, conducting rescue operations and assessing building safety. Cardinal Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo called for prayers for those affected by the earthquake, especially in Mandalay.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds. Let’s keep the affected regions in our thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
This article was originally published on LiCAS News. All rights reserved. Unauthorized republication by third parties is not permitted.
