Prepared by: Asmita Dahal, GRIT
Myanmar was struck by a catastrophic earthquake magnitude of 7.7 on March 28, 2025. Centered near Mandalay, one of Myanmar's largest cities, the earthquake caused significant loss of life and widespread infrastructure damage. The disaster's impact was compounded by ongoing political instability, hindering emergency response efforts. This report examines the geological causes of the earthquake, its direct and indirect effects, and the mitigation measures taken, while highlighting the lessons learned for future preparedness.
Introduction
Myanmar experienced a disastrous earthquake magnitude of 7.7 on March 28, 2025. It was one of the most devastating seismic events in Southeast Asia's recent history. The epicenter was located near Mandalay, one of Myanmar's largest cities and an economic hub. The earthquake resulted in substantial loss of life and extensive destruction of infrastructure. There were challenges in emergency response due to ongoing political instability in Myanmar. This report observes the geological causes of the earthquake and its direct and indirect impacts. It also explains the mitigation measures undertaken during and after the disaster, and the lessons learned to prepare for future seismic events.
Geographical and Tectonic Context
Myanmar is located along the Sagaing Fault and the Sunda megathrust, which makes it highly vulnerable to earthquakes. The Sagaing Fault is a main transform fault that runs approximately 1,400 kilometers through the country. This fault separates the Burma Plate from the Sunda Plate. Due to the adjacent movement of tectonic plates, the fault has the potential to produce high-magnitude earthquakes.
Moreover, the Sunda megathrust is a convergent boundary where the Indian Plate subducts underneath the Burma Plate. This megathrust brings additional seismic risk, particularly along Myanmar's western coastline. The blend of these tectonic structures creates a complex and unstable geological environment in Myanmar. The 2025 earthquake occurred at a narrow depth of approximately 10 kilometers. It caused destructive effects across a wide area. Tremors were felt far up to Thailand and Bangladesh (Al Jazeera, 2025; Sky News, 2025).
Impacts of the Earthquake
Humanitarian Crisis: There was the immense humanitarian toll from the 2025 earthquake in Myanmar. It took over 2,000 lives, injured more than 3,900 people, and 270 people went missing. It damaged thousands of buildings, including schools, hospitals, and residential structures. The rescue and relief efforts were delayed due to the prevailing civil conflict in Myanmar, which further worsened the situation. Access to remote areas was hindered because of damaged roads and communication networks, due to which many communities were left stranded without aid for several days (Strait Times, 2025; UNFPA, 2025).
The psychological effect of the disaster on survivors cannot be ignored. Many families had to let go of their loved ones and their homes. It further created lasting challenges for recovery and mental health. The temporary shelters were already congested due to the dislocation of thousands of individuals, which added additional pressure.
- The earthquake caused extensive economic damage. The damage is projected to exceed billions of dollars. Important infrastructures like roads, bridges, airports, and government buildings were destroyed. Mandalay is an economic hub that faced a massive impact as industries and businesses were severely disrupted. Myanmar’s economy heavily relies on farming. The damage to agricultural land and water supplies further disrupted Myanmar's economy. (Sky News, 2025).
- The earthquake also affected international trade because damaged transport routes delayed shipments and resulted in financial losses to neighboring countries dependent on Myanmar's exports. The earthquake revealed the delicacy of the nation's economic system and further emphasized the need for resilient infrastructure.
- The seismic activity caused landslides in mountainous regions and triggered additional destruction. The landslides blocked access to remote villages. Rivers and other natural water sources were polluted. Concerns about the outbreak of waterborne diseases were raised. The health risks of survivors were high due to the disruption of sanitation systems in the affected areas (UNFPA, 2025).
Response Efforts
- The rescue operations were delayed because of the lack of heavy machinery and trained personnel. The military-led government also struggled to coordinate relief efforts. However, the local communities showcased their spirit. The volunteers also played an important role in providing instant aid to those in need (Strait Times, 2025).
- However, due to congestion and limited resources, many survivors were left without enough food, water, and medical essentials. Community leaders gathered international support to address the shortages.
- Myanmar’s Government made a rare appeal for international assistance, identifying the scale of the disaster. Countries like China, India, and Russia sent rescue teams, medical supplies, and financial aid. The United Nations and other humanitarian organizations further aided relief efforts by mobilizing their resources. However, since the infrastructures were damaged, access to affected areas was limited (UNFPA, 2025).
The international response underlined the significance of cross-border cooperation in addressing the damage created by large-scale disasters. Adding to the logistical challenges, the aid supported thousands of survivors. It further underscored the need for Myanmar to reinforce its disaster management capabilities.
Lessons Learned and Future Preparedness
Infrastructure Resilience: The urgent need for robust infrastructure was felt after looking at the damage caused by the earthquake. Priority must be given to implementing building codes that guide the earthquake-resistant designs, mainly for schools, hospitals, and government buildings. Strengthening critical facilities is essential for reducing future disasters' forecasted impact and ensuring essential amenities flow during emergencies (Sky News, 2025).
- One reason for the high death toll during the 2025 earthquake was the absence of effective early warning systems. By developing and deploying such systems, residents could have crucial time to evacuate and take preventive measures. Leveraging technologies like seismic monitoring and mobile alerts could significantly enhance disaster readiness (UNFPA, 2025).
- Empowering local communities by providing education and training is crucial for improving their disaster responsiveness. Regular campaigns and training on public awareness, evacuation drills, and disaster response are necessary in local communities. Schools, workspaces, and local organizations can be engaged to create a culture of preparedness and reduce panic during emergencies.
- As seismic risks are interconnected in Southeast Asian countries, Myanmar could benefit from regional collaboration with neighboring countries. Expertise, resources, and best practices in disaster management can be shared across borders to strengthen collective resilience to earthquakes and other natural disasters. International organizations can play a crucial role in facilitating such collaborations the (Strait Times, 2025).
Conclusion
Myanmar’s exposure to seismic events and the importance of disaster preparedness were underlined by the 2025 earthquake. The immediate response highlighted the resilience of local communities and the significance of international aid. To reduce the impact of future earthquakes and build a safer country, investment in resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, empowered communities, and regional collaboration is essential.
Constant efforts from the government, international community, and local organizations are crucial for Myanmar's recovery from this disaster. By addressing the lessons learned from the 2025 earthquake, Myanmar can emerge stronger and better equipped to confront the challenges that possible seismic activities in the future can bring.
References
- Al Jazeera. (2025). What caused the powerful Myanmar and Thailand earthquake? Retrieved from https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/28/powerful-earthquake-strikes-myanmar
- Sky News. (2025). Myanmar earthquake: More than 1,600 killed and 3,408 injured. Retrieved from https://news.sky.com/story/myanmar-earthquake-footage-shows-buildings-collapse-as-more-than-1-600-killed-and-3-408-injured-13337674
- Al Jazeera. (2025). Myanmar-Thailand earthquake updates: 1,700 killed, aftershocks cause panic. Retrieved from https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2025/3/30/myanmar-thailand-earthquake-live-race-to-find-survivors-as-toll-tops-1600
- Strait Times. (2025). In Myanmar’s ‘Abode of Kings,’ earthquake hits home of military power. Retrieved from https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/in-myanmars-abode-of-kings-earthquake-hits-home-of-military-power
- UNFPA. (2025). Flash update #1 on the UNFPA response to the earthquake in Myanmar. Retrieved from https://myanmar.unfpa.org/en/news/unfpa-myanmar-mobilizes-rapid-response-following-devastating-earthquake