Emergency response for Myanmar

Myanmar has been struck by a devastating earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale. The damage is immense, and thousands of people have been affected. ZOA is present in the area and provides emergency aid.

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1 April 2025

Massive destruction

Within six hours of the earthquake, 28 aftershocks were recorded, some with a magnitude of up to 6.4 on the Richter scale. A state of emergency has been declared in six regions. "Gradually, reports of deaths and injuries are coming in," says Paul Roelofsen, country director for ZOA in Myanmar.

The epicentre of the quake was near Mandalay in central Myanmar. In Bangkok, Thailand, 1,000 kilometres away, a construction site for an apartment complex collapsed.

Humanitarian aid

In Mandalay and the surrounding areas, over 3,000 deaths have been reported so far, but this number continues to rise. Fires have also broken out in several places, including at a university. "An additional problem is that it has been very dry and hot for some time now," he says.

The earthquake has struck at the worst possible time in Myanmar’s history, says Paul. People were already fleeing within their own country due to violence. "Imagine you’ve already lost your home, just rebuilt something new, and now you're faced with this disaster again."

Relief

The need for shelter, clean drinking water, and financial support is enormous. Therefore, ZOA is offering help in various ways:

Temporary shelters: We are providing tents, mosquito nets, and other materials to ensure people have a safe place to sleep.
Cash for basic needs: Families can choose which essential items they need the most.
House repairs: For those whose homes are still salvageable, we are providing materials and technical assistance. The sooner we can do this, the fewer people will have to survive on the streets.

Headerfoto: ANP | Sai Aung Main

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