International aid began arriving in Myanmar on Saturday as rescue teams raced against time to find survivors following a devastating earthquake.
The disaster has claimed 694 lives and left 1,670 injured, according to Myanmar’s military government—a sharp increase from the initial toll of 144 reported on Friday.
Junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing had previously warned that casualties were expected to rise and called on nations worldwide to offer assistance.
In response, a Chinese rescue team arrived on Saturday, while Russia and the United States also pledged support. The powerful earthquake, which struck around midday on Friday, caused widespread destruction, including significant damage to buildings in neighboring Thailand.
According to predictive models from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the death toll in Myanmar could surpass 10,000, with economic losses potentially exceeding the nation’s GDP. USGS scientist Susan Hough highlighted the challenges in estimating fatalities, noting that earthquakes occurring during the daytime often result in lower casualties since people are more alert and capable of reacting.
Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city and near the quake’s epicenter, was among the hardest-hit areas. Meanwhile, in Bangkok, located 1,000 km (620 miles) away, search operations intensified to rescue construction workers trapped under the rubble of a collapsed 33-story building. Thai officials confirmed nine deaths and reported 101 individuals still missing.
According to the Chinese embassy, a 37-member Chinese rescue team arrived in Yangon early Saturday, equipped with medical supplies and life-detection devices. Russia also announced plans to deploy 120 experienced rescuers, doctors, and search dogs to aid in relief efforts.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday that his administration had been in contact with Myanmar’s officials and would provide assistance.
In Bangkok, Governor Chadchart Sittipunt vowed to use all available resources to rescue survivors, as drones and excavators combed through debris to locate those still trapped.
