Bangkok Earthquake Causes Skyscraper Collapse, Traps Workers

A significant earthquake struck Bangkok on Friday, causing a skyscraper’s collapse and trapping at least 43 workers. The earthquake was measured at 7.7 magnitude, with fatalities reported in Thailand and Myanmar. A state of emergency has been declared, and rescue efforts are ongoing.

On Friday, Bangkok experienced a significant earthquake that caused a skyscraper under construction to collapse, trapping at least 43 workers inside. The earthquake’s epicenter was identified in neighboring Myanmar, occurring at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), according to Germany’s GFZ Center for Geosciences.

The United States Geological Survey reported the earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.7, followed closely by an aftershock of 6.4. While there were fatalities reported in both Thailand and Myanmar, the exact toll remains unclear. In response to the disaster, the Thai Prime Minister declared a state of emergency in Bangkok.

Witnesses noted that many residents fled to the streets following the tremors. Reports indicated water was displaced from swimming pools during the shaking. The high-rise building that collapsed was a 30-story structure intended for government offices, located in northern Bangkok.

Emergency responders reported that at least two individuals have been confirmed dead, while seven others have been rescued. The deputy police chief of Bang Sue district, Worapat Sukthai, stated, “When I arrived to inspect the site, I heard people calling for help.” Recovery efforts are ongoing, with many individuals still believed to be trapped.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt affirmed that the earthquake damaged multiple high-rise buildings within the city. Inspections are currently being conducted to assess the extent of this damage. Concurrently, some metro and light rail services were suspended due to safety concerns stemming from the earthquake.

The earthquake that struck Bangkok resulted in the tragic collapse of a skyscraper under construction, leading to numerous injuries and fatalities among trapped workers. With ongoing recovery efforts and assessments of damage to buildings, local authorities have declared a state of emergency to address the crisis in the capital and neighboring areas effectively. Residents are urged to exercise caution as inspections proceed.

Original Source: timesofoman.com