BANGKOK — More than 1,000 people have been confirmed dead in Myanmar following a powerful earthquake that struck near the country’s second-largest city, according to a statement from the military government. The quake, which caused widespread destruction, has left rescue workers struggling to reach affected areas amid damaged infrastructure and ongoing political instability.
The earthquake, one of the deadliest to hit the region in recent years, caused buildings to collapse and triggered landslides in several provinces. Eyewitness reports describe scenes of devastation, with entire villages reduced to rubble and thousands left homeless. Limited communication networks and damaged roads have further complicated relief efforts.
International organizations and neighboring countries have expressed concern over the unfolding crisis, but Myanmar’s military-led government has not yet indicated whether it will accept foreign aid. Humanitarian groups warn that the death toll could rise as search-and-rescue operations continue in the hardest-hit areas.