An 8.2 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, causing widespread power outages and fuel shortages. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
A devastating 8.2 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, causing widespread power outages and fuel shortages. The disaster has led to panic buying of generators among residents, while rescue teams face difficulties accessing the hardest-hit areas.
A United Nations staff member stated that restoring electricity is the top priority, as March is one of the hottest months in the region.
Power shortages hinder international relief efforts
According to Myanmar’s military, the earthquake has resulted in at least 1,644 deaths and thousands of injuries. Even before the disaster, the country was already a focal point for humanitarian aid due to prolonged internal conflict. The United Nations estimates that prior to the quake, 3 million people were already displaced, and around 20 million required assistance.
Deepmala Mahla, Chief Humanitarian Officer at CARE International, highlighted the challenges posed by fuel shortages and the lack of electricity. Communication and supply chain management have become difficult, making it extremely challenging to reach Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city.
The earthquake has exacerbated Myanmar’s power crisis, forcing rolling blackouts nationwide. In Nay Pyi Taw, one of the worst-affected areas, people are scrambling to buy generators, particularly smaller, more affordable, and portable models. A local resident described the scene: “So many people are lining up to buy them—it’s almost like a frenzy. If you see one, you grab it and carry it away immediately.”
Fuel shortages cause long queues after quake in Myanmar
— CGTN Europe (@CGTNEurope) March 29, 2025
Footage shows severe #fuelshortages in #Naypyidaw leading to long queues at petrol stations after a powerful #earthquake claimed more than 1,000 lives and injured more than 2,000 in #Myanmar on Friday. pic.twitter.com/0xQYIn9s8Y
#Myanmar quake aftermath: Power shortages trigger generator rush
— CGTN (@CGTNOfficial) March 29, 2025
For more: https://t.co/Y7GRzKoUKn pic.twitter.com/93WiE8FV49
Liu Chong, a UN staff stationed in Myanmar, warned that the country is currently experiencing its dry season, with temperatures in Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw exceeding 40°C. Air conditioning and fans are unavailable without electricity, making heat relief nearly impossible. He emphasized that restoring power is the top priority, alongside mobilizing international relief teams for urgent aid.
A strong earthquake in Myanmar's Sagaing Region caused widespread collapse of many houses. (Photo: National Unity Government Myanmar)
Sembcorp’s gas power plant shut down
Several power plants in Myanmar have been affected by the earthquake, including a natural gas power plant operated by Singapore’s Sembcorp Industries in Mandalay. Sembcorp confirmed that the Myingyan Independent Power Plant, valued at $300 million, automatically shut down due to grid failure but sustained no physical damage. All personnel remained safe.
Although the earthquake was felt in neighboring Thailand—where strong tremors were reported in Bangkok, even causing a government audit building under construction to collapse—the country’s power infrastructure remains intact. Thailand’s Electricity Generating Authority (EGAT) confirmed that its power plants and dams underwent rigorous safety inspections and were not affected by the seismic activity.
Source: CGTN(1), (2), Nikkei Asia, BBC, The Straits Times
.jpg)
