7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand, Multiple Casualties Reported, Buildings and Bridges Collapse<br /><br />Myanmar and Thailand were rocked by a powerful earthquake this afternoon, resulting in multiple reported casualties.<br /><br />According to foreign news agencies, the earthquake caused buildings and bridges to collapse in both countries, while an under-construction building in Bangkok also collapsed, raising fears of significant loss of life.<br /><br />The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the earthquake had a magnitude of 7.7 and a depth of 10 kilometers. Its epicenter was located 17.2 kilometers from the city of Mandalay, Myanmar. Strong aftershocks were also felt following the initial quake.<br /><br />Authorities confirmed that in the city of Taungoo, Myanmar, a mosque partially collapsed, killing at least three people. Local media reported that in Aung Ban, a hotel collapsed, resulting in at least two deaths and 20 injuries.<br /><br />State media reported that buildings in five cities and towns were destroyed, while two bridges on the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway also collapsed.<br /><br />Myanmar's military government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas.<br /><br />
