Early morning on July 16, an earthquake centered near Mandalay caused alarm among local residents. According to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, the earthquake struck at 3:27 AM, with its epicenter located approximately 4 miles southeast of Pyigyitagon Township in Mandalay. The earthquake had a magnitude of 4.9 on the Richter scale and occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers.
The tremor was strongly felt not only in Mandalay but also in surrounding areas including Pyin Oo Lwin, Myittha, Taunggyi, Kyaukse, and Myitnge townships, as confirmed by local residents. During the earthquake, people reported hearing rumbling sounds from the ground, and due to the extended duration of the tremor, many residents who were awakened from their sleep had to evacuate to the streets. A resident from Pyigyitagon Township reported that while this earthquake felt similar to the one that occurred on March 28, it was somewhat less intense in magnitude.
According to records from the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, following the major earthquake of magnitude 7.7 that occurred on March 28, there have been 205 aftershocks and minor earthquakes recorded in the region. Experts suggest that this latest tremor could be another aftershock from the major earthquake. Initial reports indicate no structural damage to buildings or injuries to people as a result of this earthquake. The continuous seismic activity in the region has kept residents vigilant, particularly given the recent history of significant earthquakes in the area.
