On 28 March, a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar. The need there is enormous, with thousands dead and hospitals overwhelmed by the number of injured. Save the Children is providing lifesaving aid to affected areas.
The earthquake, with its epicentre in Myanmar, has left a wake of destruction with shocks felt as far away as Bangladesh, Laos, China and Thailand. Myanmar has declared a state of emergency in six of the worst-hit regions. These regions are home to more than 28 million people, including an estimated 6.7 million children.
According to reports, the earthquake has left thousands dead or injured. Hospitals are overwhelmed and families are seeking shelter in monasteries and football fields, due to fear of aftershocks. Relief measures are being hindered by damaged streets and severed communication lines.
Save the Children is providing emergency relief in earthquake-affected areas
Together with our partner organisations, our teams are providing urgent aid, including water, food and health care services, to children and their families in the affected areas.
“Many families took nothing with them when they fled their homes. Lifesaving aid is the urgent priority, but providing mental health support to survivors, especially children, is also crucial,” said Jeremy Stoner.
In Thailand, we are currently assessing the damage and how to best support the children’s needs.
