An earthquake struck central Myanmar today, leaving approximately 144 dead and 732 others injured, according to reports from Rks News.
BBC has reported that these figures come from Myanmar’s military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, who warned that the numbers are expected to rise further.
Hlaing announced that he has declared a state of emergency and requested international assistance. He confirmed that a request from the AHA Centre (ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Centre) has been approved, and aid will be sent tomorrow, with India also providing help.
“I have issued an open invitation to any organization or country that wants to come and assist the people in need within our country,” Hlaing added.
The death toll includes 96 people in Nay Pyi Taw, 18 in Sagaing, and 30 in Mandalay. Regarding the injured, 132 were reported in Nay Pyi Taw and 300 in Sagaing, with numbers still being assessed in other areas, according to Hlaing.
The situation remains dire as authorities continue to assess the damage and seek additional aid.
