Myanmar’s death toll jumps drastically to nearly 700
The death toll from the massive earthquake in Myanmar has jumped to nearly 700, with almost 1,700 people injured, the country’s ruling junta said.
The junta information team said in a statement on Saturday that 694 deaths had been confirmed in the Mandalay region alone, along with 1,670 people injured.
The shallow 7.7-magnitude quake struck northwest of the city of Sagaing in central Myanmar on Friday, causing massive destruction across large parts of the country.
A state of emergency has been declared in six regions, including Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city, which was close to the epicentre and where massive destruction has been seen.
A Chinese rescue team arrived on Saturday while Russia and the US offered aid for the disaster that also hit Thailand.
Many countries have offered condolences to Myanmar and Thailand and provided assistance after Myanmar junta leader made a plea for aid.
The junta leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, had warned on Friday of more deaths and injuries as he invited “any country” to provide help and donations.
The death toll is likely to rise significantly as rescuers reach more areas.
