8-6-2023 (YANGON) Southern Myanmar was struck by a 4.8-magnitude earthquake on Wednesday, resulting in the tragic loss of two lives and causing damage to several buildings, according to a local rescue organization.
Reports of tremors came in from various towns in the Ayeyarwady and Yangon regions, including Maubin, where the impact was particularly severe.
Aung Kyaw Myint, an official from the Saytanarshin Rescue Organization, shared the harrowing details, stating, “In Maubin, a Buddhist nun and a woman lost their lives when the ceiling of a meditation center collapsed. Another woman in the same building suffered minor injuries.” The injured individual was promptly taken to Maubin hospital for treatment.
The earthquake also took a toll on a renowned pagoda in Maubin, shattering its diamond orb. Additionally, several other structures in the town were damaged as a result of the quake’s intensity.
According to Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, the earthquake originated in the Ayeyarwady region of southern Myanmar, approximately 5 miles south and southeast of Nyaungdon. With a depth of 10 km, the earthquake’s coordinates were initially determined to be at 16.98 degrees north latitude and 95.67 degrees east longitude.
This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of earthquakes and the importance of preparedness and safety measures in vulnerable regions.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families of the victims and those affected by the damage caused by this devastating earthquake.