A 7.7 magnitude earthquake shook central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, leaving widespread devastation in its wake and prompting urgent calls for humanitarian support. The tremor has affected over six million people and prompted a state of emergency in multiple regions of Myanmar. It is said the quake was felt in Thailand, China, and India.

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) reported that Mandalay, the epicenter of the earthquake, sustained catastrophic damage. The powerful tremor brought down hospitals, schools, residential buildings, bridges, and places of worship, while Mandalay University caught fire amid the chaos.

More than 100 structures have collapsed, crippling vital infrastructure across the region. While initial reports confirmed at least 20 deaths, updated figures indicate that the death toll has surged to 1,600, with some estimates suggesting the number could rise to more than 10,000 as search and rescue operations continue.

In the aftermath of the 7.7 magnitude quake, families in Sagaing, Myanmar take refuge outside, illuminated only by phones and flashlights as they wait for safety updates and the tremors to subside.

In Thailand, where tremors reached the capital, Bangkok, Adventist leaders also experienced the quake’s impact firsthand.

Khamsay Phetchareun, director of the Center for Adventist-Buddhist Relations (CABR), was in his hotel room when the tremors struck.

“At first, I thought I was dizzy,” Phetchareun said. “Then I realized it was an earthquake when my hotel room cupboard doors swung open and the building swayed violently. I knelt beside my bed and prayed.”

Phetchareun shared that a high-rise under construction collapsed in Bangkok, reportedly burying at least 40 workers under the rubble. He emphasized the urgency of prayer and support for the people of Myanmar, especially those in the quake’s epicenter who lost their homes.

Ron Genebago, SSD Youth Ministries director, who was on an itinerary visit to Mandalay, also experienced the earthquake firsthand.

“About 50 minutes after I landed at Mandalay Airport—and just 10 minutes after leaving—the earthquake struck,” he shared in a post. The airport was immediately closed, forcing the cancellation of all flights to Yangon.

Amid the destruction, ADRA has initiated rapid needs assessments in coordination with the Myanmar Red Cross and other humanitarian agencies.

Priority needs include emergency shelter, mobile clinics, trauma care, and mental health support for survivors coping with loss and ongoing aftershocks. ADRA’s response efforts are underway despite ongoing disruptions to roads, communication networks, and infrastructure.

“Our brothers and sisters in Myanmar need our prayers now more than ever,” said Phetchareun. “Even before the earthquake, they were already enduring hardship. This tragedy has only deepened their suffering.”

An earthquake-damaged home in Mandalay stands with shattered supports and fallen debris after the powerful March 28 tremor.

While access to some areas remains difficult due to damaged infrastructure and communication breakdowns, church leaders and partners remain committed to reaching those in need.

In his message of support, Roger Caderma, president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, extended heartfelt prayers and words of comfort to all those affected and displaced by the earthquake, assuring them that the church stands with them during this time of deep loss and uncertainty.

“Our hearts are heavy with sorrow for the lives lost and the suffering caused by this disaster. To everyone in Myanmar and Thailand, please know that you are not alone. We are lifting you up in prayer and mobilizing support to help meet your urgent needs. In times like these, may the love of Jesus bring peace that surpasses understanding and hope that never fades.”

The Seventh-day Adventist Church stands in solidarity with the people of Myanmar and Thailand, praying for comfort, protection, and healing in the aftermath of the disaster.

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site. Follow ANN on social media and join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news updates.