On March 28, 2025, a 7.7 earthquake utterly rocked the Sagaing Region of Myanmar. The epicenter is believed to be relatively close to the country's second biggest city, Mandalay. Estimates on the death toll in Myanmar range drastically depending on the source the news outlet in the region but tend to be in the range of 2,400 to 3,600. Thousands more are missing or injured, so those numbers will likely continue to rise. Firm numbers in rural regions are even harder to come by.
The impact of the earthquake was also felt in nearby Thailand. While casualties and damages were far lower than in Myanmar, there were still substantial deaths largely related to a specific building collapse. Southern China, India, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Bangladesh also reported damages from the quake as well as the continuing aftershocks that are plaguing the region.
While this obviously isn't the priority at the moment, tourists and travelers will be heavily impacted by this. Large portions of Myanmar have declared states of emergency due to dozens of collapsed buildings and destroyed infrastructure. As such, all unessential travel to Myanmar should be restricted for the foreseeable future. The last thing the authorities need are tourists wandering the impacted regions. Myanmar's unstable political climate is not making the situation any easier.
Thailand is still relatively safe to travel to. Disruptions to air travel and mass transit cause by the quake have been dealt with. Authorities in Thailand have been quick to point out that Bangkok, which took the brunt of the damages in the country, is safe and ready to receive visitors. If you are still planning to head to Thailand, be advised that there will likely be aftershocks. And make sure you listen to any guidance from the government and local authorities.