A magnitude 7.7 earthquake hit the heart of Myanmar on March 28, 2025, as per the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The epicenter of the quake was just 16 kilometres north-northwest of the town of Sagaing, as per the USGS. The quake measured 7.0 according to the National Center for Seismology in New Delhi.
Local media reported that tremors were felt across several towns, including Sagaing, Mandalay, Kyaukse, Pyin Oo Lwin, and Shwebo in upper Myanmar.
Old heritage buildings dating back to the period just before Myanmar, then known as Burma, was annexed by the British, have reportedly suffered damage due to the earthquake.
Sagaing has given its name to the Sagaing Fault, a major geological fault between the Indian plate and the Sunda plate. It is one of the most seismically active faults in Mainland Southeast Asia, running north–south in the central part of Myanmar. It passes through towns and cities including Sagaing, Mandalay and Naypidaw, the capital of the country.
Between 1906 and 1991, the Sagaing Fault generated at least eight major earthquake events with a magnitude greater than 7.0.
A 2024 study had warned that the vicinity of Naypyidaw might be at risk of a major earthquake in the future. “Therefore, effective earthquake mitigation plans should be urgently arranged,” it had said.
The Sagaing Region, where the earthquake has occurred, is already a battleground since the 2021 Myanmar coup between resistance forces and the Myanmar junta.
“Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand,” prime minister Narendra Modi wrote on his X handle.