Note: As seismologists review available data, they may revise the earthquake’s reported magnitude. Additional information collected about the earthquake may also prompt U.S.G.S. scientists to update the shake-severity map.

A major 7.7 magnitude earthquake has struck Myanmar, causing damage and casualties across the country and in neighbouring Thailand. The quake happened in central Myanmar at a depth of 6.2 miles just before 1pm local time (6:20 GMT),

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit central Myanmar, causing buildings to collapse and a high number of casualties in the region.

A powerful earthquake killed dozens of people in Myanmar on Friday, according to state media, toppling buildings and damaging infrastructure over a wide area.

The death toll from a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has jumped to nearly 700 according to the government, state-run media

People in Mandalay, near the epicenter of the 7.7.-magnitude quake, were rushed to the main hospital. Shaking was felt hundreds of miles away in Bangkok, in neighboring Thailand.

A huge 7.7 magnitude earthquake has hit central Myanmar, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). At least 144 people have died and 732 have been injured so far in the country, Myanmar military leader Min Aung Hlaing said.

The country has seen decades of unrest and military rule since its independence from Britain in 1948. In 2011, it appeared to move away from this and free elections were held four years later, which Aung San Suu Kyi won.