On September 23 at 5:49 AM, an earthquake measuring 4.9 on the Richter scale struck near Pyin Oo Lwin in Mandalay Region, as confirmed by the National Unity Government. The earthquake, which had its epicenter at a depth of 10 kilometers, was strongly felt in Pyin Oo Lwin, Mandalay, and Sagaing cities, according to local residents’ reports.
A resident living near Tat-U Ratana Pon Monastery in Ward 10 of Pyin Oo Lwin described how the earthquake was accompanied by loud underground rumbling sounds, causing significant panic among locals who fled their homes. Similarly, in Mandalay city, residents reported feeling distinct tremors that caused considerable alarm among the population.
According to a Mandalay resident’s account, the earthquake occurred around 6 AM and consisted of a single, sharp jolt that lasted briefly. In Sagaing city, while the earthquake was noticeable, a local humanitarian worker from Zeyar Ward noted that its intensity appeared less severe compared to other areas. The resident, who is involved in charity work, provided this assessment based on their observations in the Zeyar New Quarter area.
The Meteorology and Hydrology Department, under military council control, reported that the earthquake measured magnitude 4.0 and was centered approximately 6 miles southwest of Myittha town in Mandalay Region. This seismic event occurs while people are still recovering from the devastating 7.7 magnitude Sagaing earthquake of March 28 this year, which resulted in thousands of civilian casualties across major cities including Mandalay, Sagaing, and Naypyidaw.
