Myanmar earthquake death toll surpasses 1,000
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Authorities in Myanmar announced on Saturday that the death toll from the powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the country on Friday, and was felt in neighboring nations, has risen to 1,002.
According to state media, the number of fatalities has climbed to 1,002, with 2,376 injured and dozens still missing.
International aid began arriving on Saturday as search and rescue teams continue efforts to locate survivors, amid concerns that the death toll may continue to rise.
In a statement, Myanmar’s ruling military council said that infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings has suffered extensive damage, resulting in casualties among civilians. Search and rescue operations are currently underway in the affected areas.
The statement also warned that casualty numbers could increase further, with Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city near the earthquake’s epicenter, suffering the most damage.