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Myanmar

​​​Devastating earthquake in Myanmar

Myanmar Red Cross first responders stand in front of a collapsed building.(Photo credit: Myanmar Red Cross Society)

On March 28, 2025, central Myanmar was struck by a powerful, 7.7-magnitude earthquake, just 17 km from the country’s second-largest city, Mandalay. The earthquake caused widespread destruction and multiple buildings to collapse. Infrastructure has been severely impacted, and main roads, airports, Mandalay University, and ancient heritage sites are also damaged.

While the extent of the damage is not fully known, initial reports are that Sagaing and Mandalay are significantly impacted, with telecommunications cut off in several areas. The earthquake-affected areas are currently facing extreme heat, with temperatures soaring above 40°C. This has created severe conditions for both affected communities and responders. 
 

How the Myanmar Red Cross and the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement are helping people impacted

Myanmar Red Cross emergency teams responded immediately and are providing vital support to people impacted, despite major access challenges due to collapsed infrastructure and downed communications. 

Myanmar Red Cross personnel are:
  • Providing first aid and pre-hospital care.
  • Transporting people to nearby hospitals.
  • Mobilizing mobile health teams to further support in impacted areas.
  • Deploying emergency relief items, including blankets, tarpaulins, and hygiene kits.
  • Supporting search and rescue operations.
  • Helping reconnect separated families in coordination with the International Committee of the Red Cross.
The Myanmar Red Cross Society is the oldest humanitarian organization in Myanmar. Their local presence and trust within communities make them uniquely positioned to respond.

While immediate, life-saving assistance is essential, we must also plan for long-term recovery. This response will take months of coordinated effort, and the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement is committed to supporting those impacted for the long haul.
 

How you can help people impacted by the Myanmar Earthquake

People in Canada wishing to help are encouraged to donate to the Canadian Red Cross 2025 Myanmar Earthquake Appeal.

The Red Cross Red Crescent is working to deliver emergency relief and to get help to those impacted by the earthquake as quickly as possible. Money raised will enable the Red Cross Red Crescent to provide immediate relief, ongoing recovery efforts, resiliency, and preparedness activities due to compounding humanitarian crises, both in impacted and surrounding areas, including supporting displaced populations.
 

Donate now