Image Credit: Andy.LIU/Shutterstock
CPI is responding to a deadly 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday, March 28, 2025, causing widespread destruction and panic. The quake hit near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city with over 1.5 million residents, followed by a 6.4 magnitude aftershock just minutes later. Further tremors have been felt in the days following the quake.
The earthquake shook Myanmar, Thailand, Bangladesh, China, and India, leaving a trail of devastation. In Myanmar, at least 1,700 people have died and thousands more have been injured, with overwhelmed hospitals declaring mass casualty events and struggling to treat the injured. The casualty toll is expected to rise. The quake caused buildings and bridges to collapse and roads to buckle in Mandalay, Sagaing, Nay Pyi Taw and surrounding regions. With hundreds still trapped under rubble, rescuers have been digging with their bare hands to try and save them.
In a rare appeal, Myanmar’s military government has asked for international assistance as the country faces internal strife and a mounting humanitarian crisis. Escalating conflict since 2021 has displaced more than 3.5 million people. Over 20 million—including six million children—need humanitarian assistance. More than half of Myanmar’s population now lives below the poverty line.
The quake’s force spread beyond Myanmar’s borders. In Bangkok, Thailand, a high-rise under construction collapsed, trapping dozens of workers under the rubble. Thai authorities declared a state of emergency, and rescue teams are racing against time to save lives.
Community Partners International’s teams and local partners on the ground have mobilized lifesaving aid to people in need. We are prioritizing:
The recent shutdown of over 90% of USAID’s global programs, including hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to Myanmar, has intensified an already dire humanitarian crisis. Communities already on the brink are now struggling to cope with the earthquake’s devastation.
Donate now to support the people of Myanmar in this time of crisis.
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