Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Exceeds 2,700, Rescue Efforts Struggle

In the aftermath of a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, which has resulted in over 2,700 confirmed deaths and thousands more injured, hopes for finding additional survivors are diminishing. Rescue efforts continue, with a notable rescue of a 63-year-old woman occurring 91 hours after the quake, but experts warn that survival chances decrease significantly after 72 hours. The hardest-hit areas include Mandalay and Naypyitaw, where entire sections are in ruins, complicating rescue operations due to damaged infrastructure and communication issues. The National Unity Government (NUG) has called for unhindered humanitarian aid access, expressing concerns about potential military interference, while the military junta has stated it will accept foreign assistance. Despite the challenges, some rescue workers remain hopeful that individuals could survive for several more days under the rubble. As the situation evolves, the need for urgent humanitarian support remains critical to address the ongoing crisis exacerbated by the country's civil conflict.