Massive Earthquake Devastates Myanmar and Thailand, Death Toll Surpasses 1,600

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing catastrophic destruction across the region and sending tremors as far as Thailand, China, and India. According to updated reports, the death toll has now surpassed 1,600, and estimates suggest the number could rise above 10,000 as search and rescue efforts continue. More than six million people have been affected.

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) reported that Mandalay, near the quake’s epicenter, sustained severe damage. Over 100 structures, including hospitals, schools, homes, and places of worship, have collapsed. ADRA’s emergency teams are coordinating rapid needs assessments and are prioritizing emergency shelter, trauma care, and mental health support.

“Our response teams are traveling to affected communities to establish the best strategy for relief operations,” said Mario Oliveira, ADRA’s director of Emergency Management. “Despite collapsed infrastructure and communication barriers, we remain committed to reaching those in greatest need.”

Adventist Mission is also raising funds through its “Hope in Crisis” campaign to support Global Mission pioneers on the ground. One pioneer family with young children is currently homeless, sleeping in front of their damaged home. All donations will go directly toward relief efforts for affected communities.

Among those who responded immediately following the quake was Seeda Lau, a senior nursing student at Mission Hospital in Bangkok, who helped evacuate patients to safety, her father, Gregory Whitsett of the General Conference’s Office of Adventist Mission, shared in a Facebook post on March 28.

Eyewitness reports from Adventist leaders underscore the quake’s intensity. “I knelt beside my bed and prayed,” said Khamsay Phetchareun, director of the Center for Adventist-Buddhist Relations, who experienced the quake firsthand in his Bangkok hotel room. Ron Genebago, Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) Youth director, had just landed in Mandalay when the earthquake struck, shutting down the airport minutes later.

“Our hearts are heavy with sorrow for the lives lost and the suffering caused by this disaster,” said Roger Caderma, president of the SSD. “Please know you are not alone. We are lifting you up in prayer and mobilizing support to meet your urgent needs.”

Relief operations are ongoing, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church remains actively engaged in providing help and hope through its institutions and global network.

Coverage of this developing story is ongoing. Follow ANN on social media and join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news updates.

-- Last updated at 9:30 PM EST, March 29, 2025. By Angelica Sanchez, ANN