Fresh 5.5 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Central Myanmar Amid Ongoing Relief Efforts

A 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck near the city of Meiktila in central Myanmar on Sunday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor, which struck at a shallow depth, is one of the strongest aftershocks to hit the region following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that rocked the area on March 28.

Sunday’s earthquake struck in Wundwin township, approximately 97 kilometers (60 miles) south of Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. The USGS estimated the quake’s depth at about 7.7 kilometers (4.8 miles), while Myanmar’s Meteorological Department placed it at 20 kilometers (12 miles). The epicenter lies between Mandalay and Naypyitaw, the country’s administrative capital, both of which experienced significant damage and casualties in last month’s disaster.

Initial reports indicate that there has been no major damage or loss of life as a result of Sunday’s tremor. However, authorities and rescue workers remain on high alert as aftershocks continue to jolt the region, complicating ongoing relief and recovery operations.

The March 28 earthquake was one of the deadliest to strike Myanmar in recent history. As of Friday, the country’s military government reported 3,649 deaths and over 5,000 injuries. Massive destruction to infrastructure, homes, and public buildings, particularly in Mandalay and surrounding areas, has left thousands homeless and in need of urgent aid.

Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, spokesperson for the ruling military government, said that rescue and recovery efforts are still underway and that emergency teams are prepared to respond to further seismic activity.

"Every aftershock adds to the anxiety of already displaced and traumatized communities," he said. "Our teams are continuously monitoring the situation, and we have rapid response units in place across the most vulnerable regions."

Myanmar lies along several active fault lines and is highly susceptible to seismic activity. The recent spate of earthquakes has drawn international concern, with aid organizations urging increased support for the country’s strained emergency services.

Sunday’s quake serves as another stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability and the urgent need for enhanced preparedness and resilience measures in the face of natural disasters. Local officials have encouraged residents to remain cautious and report any damage, no matter how minor, as even small aftershocks can weaken structures already compromised by earlier quakes.