It is with deep concern that we at ADRRN are following the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025. The regions of Sagaing and Mandalay are among the most severely affected, with the capital Naypyidaw also impacted by this tragedy.
Several ADRRN members and colleagues are already en route to assist those in need. As a network, we are committed to coordinating our response efforts to ensure our collective strengths can be effectively utilised to support the affected communities in Myanmar while respecting and enhancing local leadership.
Situation Overview
The earthquake’s epicentres are located along the Sagaing Fault, a major right-lateral strike-slip fault running north-south through central Myanmar. This fault accommodates about 18-22 mm/year of right-lateral motion and has a history of major seismic events, including a Mw 8.0 earthquake in 1912 near Mandalay and significant earthquakes of Mw 7.3 and 7.6 in 1930 and 1931.
As rescue efforts continue, the death toll has risen to approximately 1,700 lives lost, with more than 3,400 individuals injured. Roads connecting major cities have sustained significant damage, severely compromising logistics and relief efforts.
This disaster has struck a country already in crisis. Since the 2021 military coup, conflict has escalated across 96% of Myanmar’s townships, displacing 3.5 million people internally. Before the earthquake, 19.9 million people—over one-third of the population—were in need of humanitarian assistance, with 15.2 million facing acute food insecurity.
The country’s economic challenges, including banking restrictions, currency depreciation, and inflation, are further complicating relief efforts. Cash shortages are limiting market functionality and humanitarian operations, while communication restrictions are hampering coordination.
Local Leadership in Action
Amidst this tragedy, local community leaders and volunteers have emerged as true heroes, leading search and rescue operations despite limited resources. These local responders understand the context, culture, and needs of affected communities better than anyone. Their courage and dedication exemplify the strength of the human spirit in times of adversity.
We firmly believe in the principle of locally-led humanitarian action, where international support should complement and strengthen existing local capacities rather than replace them. International partners play a valuable role in amplifying local efforts through resource sharing, technical assistance, and capacity building while respecting the autonomy and decision-making authority of local actors who are best positioned to guide sustainable recovery.
This collaborative approach, centred on local leadership and expertise, not only ensures more effective and culturally appropriate responses but also contributes to long-term community resilience.
Call for Support
We invite all our partners and the wider humanitarian community to join us in supporting our friends and colleagues in Myanmar during this difficult time. We urge everyone to recognise and support the local community leaders and volunteers who are at the forefront of saving lives.
