Bangkok Reverses Disaster Zone Declaration Following Myanmar Earthquake

The earthquake, which occurred on Friday, March 28, 2025, was centered in Myanmar near Mandalay. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake registered a high magnitude, with its effects felt as far south as Bangkok, over 600 kilometers from the epicenter. In Thailand, the seismic event caused minor structural damage in northern provinces like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, while in Bangkok, residents reported swaying buildings, rattling windows, and brief disruptions to daily life. One under construction high-rise building collapsed, the largest incident in Bangkok, killing multiple construction workers and leaving dozens of others still missing as of press time and injured.

Over the weekend, Bangkok’s Metropolitan Administration (BMA) issued the Level 2 disaster zone designation. The decision was made as a precautionary measure amid reports of aftershocks and uncertainty about the quake’s broader impact on the densely populated capital. Under the declaration, local agencies were mobilized to inspect infrastructure, including high-rise buildings, bridges, and public transportation systems, while emergency response teams were placed on standby.

However, by Monday, April 1, officials reversed the announcement, citing a lack of significant damage or ongoing threats in Bangkok. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt stated in a press conference that inspections conducted over the weekend revealed no major structural concerns in the city overall, although two buildings remained closed to residents for further inspection, affecting about 2000 people. “After thorough assessments, we’ve determined that the situation does not warrant maintaining the disaster zone status,” he said. “We remain vigilant, but life in Bangkok can proceed as normal.”

In Myanmar, the earthquake’s toll was more severe. Local authorities there confirmed at least 2000 fatalities and thousands of injuries, with rural communities near the epicenter bearing the brunt of collapsed buildings and landslides. Relief efforts are underway, supported by international aid organizations, as aftershocks continue to rattle the region.

Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) emphasized that while Bangkok is no longer under a disaster designation, northern provinces remain under close watch. “The situation is dynamic, and we’re coordinating with Myanmar to monitor any further developments,” a DDPM spokesperson said.

This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.