Following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28 at 12:50 p.m. local time, Direct Relief is mobilizing emergency response efforts in coordination with the ASEAN Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management, or AHA Center. The response is being guided by a standing collaboration agreement between Direct Relief and the AHA Center, established to strengthen and support regional disaster response across Southeast Asia.

The powerful quake caused severe shaking across multiple countries, including Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India, and China. In Bangkok, a 30-story building under construction collapsed, trapping at least 43 workers and causing an unknown number of casualties. In Myanmar, particularly in Mandalay, early reports indicate significant infrastructure damage and overwhelmed healthcare facilities. A 6.4-magnitude aftershock followed just 12 minutes after the initial event, increasing the risk of further damage and injuries.

In response, Direct Relief is mobilizing its emergency response efforts to support those affected in impacted countries and regionally. The organization’s established connection with the AHA Center enables rapid, coordinated response and effective communication in support of ASEAN member states. Direct Relief is also in contact with local partner organizations and healthcare providers to determine the immediate medical needs.

Direct Relief has responded to large-scale earthquakes in the region, including a 7.5-magnitude earthquake in Sulawesi, Indonesia, in 2018. Globally, the organization has also responded to devastating earthquakes, including in Haiti (2010) and Mexico (2017), and most recently the 2023 earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria. The organization is committed to ensuring that frontline healthcare providers have the critical resources needed to treat the injured and prevent further loss of life.

As assessments continue, Direct Relief will provide updates and deploy additional support to meet evolving needs in the impacted areas.