Myanmar hit by another earthquake, more deaths

A 5.1-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar in the latest aftershocks, the epicenter of which was 27 kilometers north of the city of Mandalay, AP reported.

The earthquake struck as rescuers continued to search for survivors in the worst-hit areas of Myanmar, following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck at noon on March 28. As of the evening of March 30, the death toll had risen to 1,700.

Collapsed bridges, damaged roads, broken communications and some areas outside the control of the ruling military government have hampered rescue efforts. According to local media, many people in Mandalay are sleeping on the streets, homeless or afraid to return home for fear of aftershocks.

Many areas remain inaccessible, while rescue efforts are largely carried out by civilians, using their bare hands in temperatures of 41°C. Cara Bragg, director of Yangon-based Catholic Relief Services, said local volunteers and residents were trying to find survivors, with little hope.

Several countries are sending search and rescue teams and medical personnel to Mandalay to assist in the rescue effort. Myanmar officials say hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of injured and are running low on medical supplies. Locals are also struggling to find food and clean water.

In neighboring Thailand, local authorities reported the death toll had risen to 18, with more than 30 injured and 83 missing.

The Thai Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation said it had received reports of damage in 18 provinces across the country, affecting 420 houses, 48 ​​temples, 76 hospitals, eight buildings, 23 schools and 18 government offices. However, the agency said the risk of aftershocks was decreasing.