On 28 March 2025, two strong earthquakes occurred in central Myanmar, in Sagaing Region, near Mandalay (the second largest city in the country).
The first one was at 7.7 magnitude at 12:50 pm local time, and the second one was at 6.4 magnitude at 13:02 local time,
These earthquakes have caused the large-scale destruction of structures and buildings. The scale of deaths, injuries, and damage to health facilities is not yet fully understood, and the reported number will likely increase in the coming days.
Since 2021, Myanmar has experienced widespread conflict and humanitarian deterioration. Before this earthquake, 12.9 million people were estimated to require humanitarian health interventions in 2025.
The areas affected by the earthquakes are Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, Shan South & East, and Sagaing.
These areas are already affected by conflict, displacement, and fragile health systems.
The casualties are likely to be highest in the urban areas of Mandalay, Sagiang, and Nay Pyi Taw.
Preliminary reports suggested that at least 1,000 people have died and over 2,200 have been injured; however, the number is likely to increase in the coming days.
There are reports of hospitals being overwhelmed and health facilities bearing extensive damage in affected areas.