Before-and-after satellite images reveal devastation from Myanmar's strongest earthquake in 100 years

Several neighborhoods and culturally significant religious landmarks in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, were reduced to rubble, illustrating the severe impact of the quake and subsequent aftershocks.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), this earthquake is the most powerful to hit Myanmar in the past century. Initial models from USGS estimate a 36% likelihood that fatalities could surpass 100,000, with economic damages potentially exceeding the country's entire GDP, which was US$64.28 billion in 2024 according to IMF.

The Mahamuni Pagoda in Mandalay, Myanmar before and after the earthquake. Photo courtesy of Maxar

Myanmar authorities on March 29 said at least 1,700 individuals lost their lives, with over 3,400 injured and approximately 300 people still missing.

The country has declared a state of emergency in six heavily affected regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay and Magway.

The Inwa Bridge in Mandalay before and after the earthquake. Photo courtesy of Maxar

The disaster has severely damaged critical infrastructure, knocking out communication towers, disrupting mobile and internet networks, and causing widespread outages of water and electricity. The destruction of roads has also complicated relief efforts and hindered access to affected communities.

Global humanitarian efforts are already underway, with various countries and international organizations pledging assistance, including sending personnel specialized in search-and-rescue operations.

The Myanmar Red Cross Society has mobilized volunteers to provide critical medical aid and distribute essential items like blankets and hygiene products.

Pagodas and monasteries in Mandalay. Photo courtesy of Maxar

In Sagaing City, eyewitness Han Zin described the scene as dire, with many buildings destroyed and utilities largely unavailable.

Several buildings have collapsed, and water and electricity access was lost in most areas, Zin told Reuters.

An area in Mandalay is devastated by the earthquake. Photo courtesy of Maxar

The quake's impact extended into neighboring Thailand, where a building under construction in Bangkok collapsed, killing at least 18 people and trapping 76 others, according to Thai authorities.