Flash Update #1 on the UNFPA Response to the Earthquake in Myanmar

On 28 March 2025, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock. The tremors were felt across Southeast Asia and caused widespread destruction in multiple regions, including Mandalay, Sagaing, Magway, Bago, and Naypyidaw. Over 900 people were killed and more than 2,600 injured, with extensive infrastructure damage, including collapsed buildings, bridges, and essential services. The disaster has compounded an already dire humanitarian situation, affecting nearly 20 million people, including over 3.5 million internally displaced persons—most of them women and girls—amid ongoing conflict and limited access. 

Women and girls affected by the earthquake in Myanmar face heightened risks and urgent needs, including disrupted access to life-saving sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, increased exposure to gender-based violence (GBV), and acute psychosocial distress. In response, UNFPA has deployed its Rapid Response Team to Mandalay to coordinate assessments and support the delivery of urgent SRH, GBV, and mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services through mobile health units and local partners. To help restore dignity, ensure safety, and meet essential needs, UNFPA is distributing over 22,000 critical supplies — including dignity kits, clean delivery kits, and women’s essential item packages — through local and national channels. As lead of the GBV Sub-Cluster, MHPSS and SRH Working Groups, and co-chair of the GiHA Working Group, UNFPA is facilitating coordinated action with national and international partners to ensure the continuity of life-saving services for women and girls in the hardest-hit areas.