A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck early Monday morning near the China–Myanmar border, affecting southern China, northern Thailand, and Myanmar. The U.S. Geological Survey reported it occurred at 3:42 a.m. local time at a shallow depth of about 10 km.

The quake has caused widespread devastation. “Hundreds have been hurt, dozens have died, and many more are still trapped beneath debris,” according to initial reports. Rescue teams are racing to reach survivors under collapsed buildings.

In northern Thailand, cities like Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai experienced intense shaking. Authorities ordered mass evacuations due to fears of aftershocks and structural damage.

Emergency services are providing shelter and medical aid, though hospitals are overwhelmed. Power outages and damaged infrastructure are slowing down rescue efforts, and some areas have lost communication entirely.

Aftershocks continue, and the full extent of the disaster is still unknown. Governments of Thailand, China, and Myanmar have pledged support. This tragedy highlights “the pressing need for cooperation and readiness in emergency situations.”