Thailand, Mar 28 (V7N) – A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing widespread damage in the country and parts of Thailand, prompting Thai authorities to declare a state of emergency in Bangkok, AFP reports.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake occurred at 12:50 p.m. local time, with its epicenter 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing City at a depth of 10 kilometers.

In Thailand, the tremor led to the collapse of a 30-story building under construction in northern Bangkok, trapping at least 43 workers inside, according to AFP. Thai Prime Minister Phatthana Shinawatra declared an emergency in the capital as rescue efforts intensified.

The quake was also felt in Bangladesh, including in Dhaka and Chittagong, at 12:25 p.m. However, there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties in the country.

Rescue operations are ongoing in Myanmar and Thailand, with authorities assessing the full extent of the destruction.

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