Prime Minister Paetongtarn calls for public calm and advises reliance on official information channels.
PUBLISHED: 28 Mar 2025 at 17:13
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is urging the public to remain calm as officials report potential aftershocks following a significant earthquake that originated in Myanmar on Friday.
During an urgent meeting in Phuket, where she was attending a tourism conference, she emphasized the importance of staying informed through credible agencies to prevent misinformation and unnecessary panic.
The government has not yet completed damage assessments following the quake that affected several regions, including central and northern Thailand.
The earthquake, measured at a magnitude of 7.7, struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, around 1:20 PM, resulting in multiple aftershocks, including one recorded at a magnitude of 3.3 in the Pai district shortly after.
Among the most serious incidents reported was the collapse of a high-rise under construction for the State Audit Office, with many workers potentially trapped in the debris. Damage has also been reported across eight provinces, primarily in the northern region.
No tsunami threat identified
The public is advised to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks, with experts warning that even minor tremors can lead to further damage. Officials have confirmed no tsunami threat since the epicenter was located far from the coast.
Local authorities in Phuket have been instructed to monitor the situation diligently to ensure the safety and reassurance of residents and tourists alike.
