Myanmar quake released power of ‘334 atomic bombs’, expert warns of aftershocks

The powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake which jolted Myanmar on Friday (March 29) released energy comparable to more than 300 atomic bombs, a geologist told CNN, warning of ongoing aftershocks in the region.

“The force released by such an earthquake is equal to about 334 atomic bombs,” geologist Jess Phoenix said. The earthquake, with an epicentre in Mandalay city in Myanmar, struck at midday at a depth of 10 kilometres, according to the United States Geological Survey. According to local authorities, the death toll has surpassed 1,600, while the US Geological Survey estimated fatalities could exceed 10,000 based on earlier projections.

Phoenix also cautioned that aftershocks could persist for months as the Indian tectonic plate continues colliding with the Eurasian plate beneath Myanmar. She further noted that Myanmar’s ongoing civil war and communication blackout are hindering the outside world from grasping the full extent of the disaster.

Phoenix also warned that Myanmar’s catastrophe will only worsen due to the country’s ongoing civil war. The conflict, combined with a communication blackout, is obstructing the outside world from grasping the full impact of the earthquake.

Meanwhile, India has deployed a search and rescue team along with a medical unit, providing essential supplies such as blankets, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, sleeping bags, solar lamps, food packets, and kitchen sets.

A 37-member team from China’s Yunnan province arrived in Yangon, carrying emergency relief supplies, including life detectors, earthquake early warning systems, and drones. The team has been dispatched to assist with disaster relief and medical treatment efforts.

Strong tremors were also felt in southwest China’s Yunnan province bordering Myanmar. The powerful earthquake also rocked neighbouring Bangkok, killing 6, along with 22 people injured and 101 missing. Russia’s Emergencies Ministry deployed two aircraft loaded with 120 rescuers and essential supplies, state news agency TASS reported.

Myanmar’s military-led government has declared a state of emergency in six regions and states, including the capital Naypyitaw and Mandalay, following the powerful earthquake and a strong aftershock near the country’s second-largest city.

State-run MRTV television announced the declaration but provided limited details on the extent of the damage or casualties. Myanmar remains engulfed in a civil war, making many areas difficult to access. It remains unclear what relief efforts the military will be able to undertake.