A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck Sagaing, Myanmar at 12:52 PM today. Seismology experts have issued warnings for residents in all affected cities, villages, and regions to relocate to safe areas due to the possibility of continued aftershocks. The experts emphasize the importance of moving to secure locations away from their current residences if they are in areas that experienced the earthquake’s impact.
As secondary hazards following the earthquake, experts warn of potential fire risks in urban areas and the possibility of dam failures leading to flooding. They advise checking electrical wires, water pipes, and fuel storage tanks for damage, and immediately disconnecting or shutting off utilities if damage is found. Special attention should be paid to exposed electrical wires, and people are warned to avoid coastal areas. Experts also stress the importance of tsunami awareness for coastal residents, recommending immediate evacuation to higher ground.
Myanmar has a significant history of major earthquakes, including the Ava (Amarapura) Earthquake of 1839, the Bago Earthquake of 1930, the Sagaing Earthquake of 1956, and the Shwebo Earthquake of 2012, all of which caused substantial damage. The 1839 Ava Earthquake was particularly devastating, reaching magnitude 9 and resulting in widespread destruction of buildings and numerous casualties. The 1930 Bago Earthquake, measuring between 7.3 and 7.5, was one of the most destructive in that period, with estimated casualties between 5,000 and 7,000 people. It also caused severe damage to the Shwemawdaw Pagoda in Bago.
The Sagaing Fault is Myanmar’s largest and most active fault line, running through major cities including Yangon, Naypyidaw, and Mandalay. It extends from the Andaman Sea, connecting to the northern collision zone. The fault’s proximity to major population centers makes it particularly concerning for seismologists and emergency planners. Given the history of significant seismic events in Myanmar, including the 1975 earthquake that damaged numerous pagodas in Bagan and the 2011 earthquake in eastern Shan State, experts emphasize the critical importance of proper earthquake preparedness and strict adherence to safety guidelines during seismic events.
