Myanmar Quake Jolts Thailand; Thousands Evacuate
Myanmar Earthquake Sends Tremors Across Thailand, Triggering Evacuations and Flight Disruptions
A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake striking Myanmar on Friday afternoon sent tremors rippling across Thailand. This triggered evacuations from hospitals, offices, and shopping malls, primarily in the northern and northeastern regions. The tremors, a stark reminder of the region’s seismic vulnerability, prompted widespread concern and immediate actions to ensure public safety. The Bangkok Post reported on the earthquake’s widespread impact.
In Chiang Mai, patients at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital were swiftly evacuated from high-rise buildings as a precaution. Dr. Narain Chotirosniramit, the hospital’s director, advised outpatients to return home and reschedule appointments for Saturday. Engineers were dispatched to assess the buildings' structural integrity. Similar evacuations occurred in other hospitals, shopping malls, and office buildings throughout the province.
Further south, in Phitsanulok province, Buddhachinnaraj Hospital experienced significant shaking. Dr. Songkriat Udompornwattana described the scene in a Facebook post: “The quake caused chaos. Tremors shook Buddhachinnaraj Hospital for five minutes. Everyone, including doctors and patients, ran for safety.”
The impact extended to Nakhon Ratchasima, where tremors caused panic at Fort Suranari Hospital. Doctors, nurses, and patients rushed from the swaying building as lamps and vases rattled. Nareerat Inngam, a cleaner working on the eighth floor, described a disorienting sensation, initially mistaking the tremors for dizziness. She stated that the intensity surpassed that of previous tremors. The Nakhon Ratchasima provincial chamber of commerce office and The Rich Hotel (where a government meeting was underway) were also evacuated.
The earthquake even affected Khon Kaen International Airport. Airport director Atthaya Lapmark reported that, while safety checks revealed no damage to runways, tarmac, or other structures, flights were temporarily suspended as a precaution. Airlines established service points to assist stranded passengers, many of whom postponed their trips.
This earthquake resonates with Thailand’s history of experiencing tremors from seismic events originating in neighboring countries. The region lies within the geologically active Alpide belt, making it susceptible to earthquakes. While Thailand isn’t located directly on a major fault line, it can experience significant shaking from events in nearby countries, such as Myanmar. This event mirrors similar scenarios globally, such as the impact of earthquakes in Nepal on surrounding regions, highlighting the interconnectedness of seismic activity and the importance of cross-border disaster preparedness.
The earthquake’s ramifications could be far-reaching. Beyond immediate disruptions to daily life and economic activity, the event underscores the need for robust infrastructure and emergency preparedness. The prompt response of hospitals and airports demonstrates a degree of preparedness, but the widespread evacuations highlight the potential for greater disruption in a more severe quake.
Earthquake Safety:
- What to do during an earthquake: Drop, cover, and hold on. Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.
- Aftershocks: Aftershocks are common after large earthquakes. Be prepared for further tremors.
In conclusion, the Myanmar earthquake served as a potent reminder of the seismic risks facing Thailand. While the immediate impact appeared limited to structural shaking and temporary disruptions, the event emphasizes the crucial importance of preparedness—at both individual and national levels—to mitigate the potential consequences of future seismic events. The swift actions of authorities and the resilience of affected communities offer a hopeful glimpse of the nation’s capacity to respond to such challenges.
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