Myanmar, one of the world’s lowest-income countries, has been hit by a 7.7 magnitude earthquake, followed by a 6.4 magnitude aftershock.
The earthquake that struck central Myanmar has destroyed homes and left people in urgent need of drinking water, food and shelter.
Christian Aid has heard from partners and colleagues in the region that the Kyaukse Kinta Dam has burst in Mandalay, with water levels rising in the lowland areas around. We’re working closely with our partners and networks to identify the extent of the damage and the risk to communities there.
Myanmar is one of the lowest-income countries in the world. Even before this heartbreaking earthquake, we know conflict and displacement has left countless people in real need. Every prayer and every gift will bring hope to people hit by disaster.
Myanmar is reeling from the devastating impact of multiple earthquakes. Urgent action is needed to provide food, shelter, and medical care to those impacted by this disaster.
What's happening in Myanmar
-
What’s happening in Myanmar?
- On Friday, March 28, 2025 a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, according to the US Geological Survey
-
The epicentre was 16km (10 miles) north-west of the city of Sagaing, at a depth of 10km
-
Strong tremors were felt hundreds of miles away in Thailand and south-west China
-
Twelve minutes after the first earthquake hit Myanmar, a second one struck, according to the US Geological Survey
-
This second quake was recorded at a of 6.4, less than the earlier one of 7.7. The epicentre was 18km (11.1 miles) south of Sagaing
Image credits and information

Christian Aid's immediate response
-
Releasing emergency funds:
We are releasing emergency funds so that our local partners can begin to reach affected communities with vital life-saving assistance. -
Assessing the damage:With our partners, including those in the most affected areas, we’re currently assessing the damage and will start meeting immediate needs as soon as possible.
-
Lack of vital services:
Colleagues and partners tell us that people have been severely impacted by the earthquake, including many who saw their homes destroyed or badly damaged. Access to vital services such as water, power, and basic foods have been critically disrupted. -
Supply-focused emergency response:
The immediate emergency support that we can offer includes offering food parcels, water kits, shelters and cash for essential supplies. We are ready to stand by our partners and quake-affected communities to support their recovery over the coming weeks and months.
How your donations help
Every donation helps us meet the escalating needs of people facing crisis.
-
£5
Or €6, could provide buy basic food supplies, including rice and tinned goods.
-
£25
Or €30, could buy hygiene supplies for a family of five for two weeks.
-
£100
Or €121, could buy a food parcel for a family of five.
Christian Aid Ireland in Myanmar
We have been been supporting partner organisations and communities in Myanmar for decades.
Our trusted partners have years of experience of working with the communities in central Myanmar who have been most acutely impacted by these devastating earthquakes.
Our shared approach aims to ensure that humanitarian aid responses and community support programmes are locally-led and delivered by those most familiar with the challenges people are facing.
Pray for those affected
God, our strength and our refuge,
We pray to you for the people of Myanmar and Thailand.
We hold in mind those who are injured or have been bereaved.
We ask your protection for everyone awaiting rescue.
May those who have lost homes and belongings be comforted.
May emergency workers and medical staff be safe as they pour their energy
Into saving the lives of others.
May the international community respond quickly to support those affected.
God, our strength and our refuge,
Be with our global neighbours today.
Every donation makes a difference, providing immediate relief to those in Myanmar.