On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 hit Naypyitaw, the capital of Myanmar. This earthquake caused a lot of destruction. Many buildings fell down, and roads and bridges were badly damaged. In rural areas, landslides made it hard for help to reach entire communities. By April 2, more than 3,000 people had died, and rescue teams were still looking through the rubble, so that number might go up. Hospitals were overwhelmed, and many survivors were left without shelter, food, or clean water, making the need for help even more urgent.
The earthquake also affected other countries. In Thailand, people felt the tremors, and a tall building in Bangkok collapsed, causing more injuries and deaths. The United Nations has given $5 million for immediate aid, and countries like China, Russia, and the United States have sent teams and medical supplies to help.
At the same time, Japan is preparing for its own earthquake risk. In January 2025, experts warned there’s an 80% chance of a major earthquake, with a magnitude between 8 and 9, hitting the Nankai Trough in the next 30 years. This area has experienced severe earthquakes and tsunamis in the past. If another big earthquake strikes, it could lead to 300,000 deaths and serious economic losses of about $1.8 trillion, especially in the prefectures of Shizuoka, Aichi, Wakayama, and Kochi. To get ready, the Japanese government is focusing on disaster preparedness. They are launching public awareness campaigns and strengthening emergency plans.
Even while dealing with their own earthquake fears, Japan is helping Myanmar. The Japanese government sent emergency supplies like food, medical help, and rescue teams to support relief efforts. Japanese disaster response experts are working with Myanmar’s officials to plan and rebuild. Many Japanese citizens are also raising money for the earthquake victims in Myanmar. Organizations like Peace Winds Japan and Japan Heart have raised significant amounts of money through donations.
If you want to help, you can donate through different organizations: https://donation.yahoo.co.jp/promo/20250329.html
