IOM Myanmar: Earthquake Response Situation Report 01

SITUATION UPDATE 

The M7.7 earthquake ruptured along the Sagaing Fault and was the largest to hit Myanmar in more than a century. The last time a quake of such magnitude struck on land was the 2023 earthquake in Türkiye and Syria, which killed more than 50,000 people. Seismic activity continues along the fault with strong aftershocks occurring in Nay Pyi Taw on 29 March and in Shwebo and Sagaing on 30 March, further hampering search and rescue operations. The State Administrative Council declared a state of emergency for Bago Region, Mandalay Region, Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory, Sagaing Region, and parts of Shan State, and called for international assistance. 

Northwest: Sagaing City and Mingun, the epicentre of earthquake, experienced severe destruction, particularly in the eastern part of Sagaing City and around the five-story Pagoda area. Rescue efforts have not yet commenced, and communication lines are still down, including internet and phone lines. Public infrastructure, including schools and the Wachet Hospital in Sagaing were destroyed, and the ancient Inwa Bridge, which has connected Sagaing and Mandalay for over 90 years, collapsed. In Mandalay, a  densely populated city, homes, multi-story buildings, historical and religious sites and critical infrastructure has been destroyed or damaged, and Mandalay International Airport has been closed. The Shelter/Non-food Items (NFI) Cluster estimates that over 50,000 people have been affected, that around 150 homes being completely destroyed and around 3,000 partially damaged. People are staying alongside roads without shelter and protection, as their homes are not safe, and in need of basic services and access to food, water, and medicine, and healthcare. Magway continues to be cut off, and IOM has not yet been able to access information on the situation and humanitarian needs. 

Southeast: Several townships in Shan have been affected, including Hopong, Hsihseng, Kalaw, Langkho, Lawksawk, Nyaungshwe, Pinlaung, and Taunggyi. According to reports from organizations on the ground, Nyaungshwe is one of the most affected townships, with 39 reported deaths (as of 29 March) and with most homes destroyed in several of the villages. One hotel collapsed in Kalaw, and people remain trapped under the rubble. People are currently staying outside or finding shelter in the shops around Nanpan Market.  

Nay Pyi Taw: The earthquake has caused significant destruction of the Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory, with many government buildings, the UN compound, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, homes, factories, and religious sites having sustained significant damage, with moderate damage on commercial buildings such as shopping malls and gas stations.