Myanmar Earthquake Kills 1,644, Injures 3,408

A devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, on Friday, leading to a rising death toll currently reported at over 1,600, with thousands more injured and many still buried under rubble. Rescue efforts are primarily being conducted by local residents using manual methods, as heavy equipment is scarce and access has been severely hampered by damaged infrastructure and ongoing civil conflict. Many of Mandalay's 1.5 million inhabitants are sleeping on the streets, either homeless or fearing aftershocks that could further destabilize buildings. An aftershock of 5.1 magnitude further complicated rescue efforts, prompting despair among survivors. As international aid begins to trickle in, local hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, struggling to provide necessary medical supplies. The situation remains dire, with many areas still unreached by rescue teams, as the stench of decay fills the air amidst frantic search operations.