A powerful earthquake in Myanmar led to devastating consequences in Bangkok, with casualties reported and residents terrified.
Myanmar Quake Triggers Catastrophe in Bangkok
Myanmar Quake Triggers Catastrophe in Bangkok
Building Collapse Leaves Casualties and Fear in the City
In central Bangkok, chaos ensued as tremors from a powerful earthquake, which struck nearby Myanmar, sent panicked residents fleeing outdoors. The aftermath saw sidewalks and public spaces overcrowded with office workers, tourists, and shopkeepers seeking safety from potential aftershocks and weakened structures. Eyewitness videos corroborated by The New York Times captured a construction site where a building tragically collapsed, resulting in at least three fatalities, while many construction workers were feared trapped beneath the rubble, as reported by local authorities.
In response to the disaster, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared Bangkok an “area of emergency,” urging residents, especially those in high-rises, to evacuate in case of aftershocks. Disturbing footage emerged showing water cascading from a hotel rooftop pool, highlighting the earthquake's intensity.
As precautionary measures were taken, the city’s elevated Skytrain was temporarily suspended, and major roadways ground to a halt as people attempted to return to their homes. Businesses, including office towers, malls, and hotels, swiftly evacuated employees and guests to conduct safety inspections before permitting them to re-enter. Pam Kershaw, a tourist from Melbourne, Australia, recounted her terrifying experience on the 25th floor of the Athenee Hotel, where trembling walls and the swaying room left her shaken as she joined thousands awaiting safe passage back inside.
This event only adds to the complex narrative of natural disasters affecting urban areas, showcasing the vulnerability of communities in the face of seismic activity.
In response to the disaster, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared Bangkok an “area of emergency,” urging residents, especially those in high-rises, to evacuate in case of aftershocks. Disturbing footage emerged showing water cascading from a hotel rooftop pool, highlighting the earthquake's intensity.
As precautionary measures were taken, the city’s elevated Skytrain was temporarily suspended, and major roadways ground to a halt as people attempted to return to their homes. Businesses, including office towers, malls, and hotels, swiftly evacuated employees and guests to conduct safety inspections before permitting them to re-enter. Pam Kershaw, a tourist from Melbourne, Australia, recounted her terrifying experience on the 25th floor of the Athenee Hotel, where trembling walls and the swaying room left her shaken as she joined thousands awaiting safe passage back inside.
This event only adds to the complex narrative of natural disasters affecting urban areas, showcasing the vulnerability of communities in the face of seismic activity.
