Trend Track
On [date], a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, sending tremors hundreds of miles away, including in Bangkok, Thailand. The quake’s force was so intense that it caused swimming pool water to cascade over the edge of a high-rise building in Bangkok, a startling sight captured on video and shared widely online.
CNN meteorologist Derek Van Dam explained how the building’s design allowed it to withstand the shaking while still experiencing dramatic water displacement. This event highlights the far-reaching effects of major earthquakes and raises questions about structural engineering in earthquake-prone regions.
In this article, we’ll break down:
How the Myanmar earthquake affected Thailand
Why pool water spilled from the Bangkok high-rise
Engineering insights into earthquake-resistant structures
Historical context of earthquakes in Thailand and Myanmar
Safety tips for future seismic events
How the Myanmar Earthquake Felt in Bangkok, Thailand
The 7.7 earthquake in Myanmar (also known as Burma) had its epicenter near Mandalay, a major city in central Myanmar. According to the USGS Earthquake Map, the tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand, nearly 500 miles away. While Thailand is not as seismically active as neighboring countries, it is still vulnerable to distant quakes due to its geology.
Many residents in Bangkok high-rises reported swaying buildings, a phenomenon caused by long-period seismic waves. These waves travel far and are more noticeable in tall structures, sometimes causing water in pools to slosh violently—leading to the dramatic spill captured in viral videos.
Why Did Pool Water Spill Over the Bangkok High-Rise?
When an earthquake in Thailand (or nearby regions like Myanmar) occurs, high-rise buildings are designed to flex rather than break. This flexibility prevents catastrophic collapse but can lead to visible movement, including:
Swaying motions that displace water in rooftop pools
Resonance effects, where the building’s natural frequency matches seismic waves
Sloshing, where water moves unpredictably due to shaking
Derek Van Dam noted that modern Bangkok skyscrapers are built with base isolators and dampers to absorb shock. However, open-air features like pools are still subject to wave action during strong tremors.
Case Study: Similar Events Worldwide
In 2011, the Tokyo Skytree’s observatory pools sloshed during a distant quake.
During the 2015 Nepal earthquake, hotel pools in Kathmandu overflowed due to shaking.
Are Earthquakes Common in Thailand and Myanmar?
While Thailand earthquakes are relatively rare, Myanmar sits on multiple fault lines, making it more prone to seismic activity. The USGS records frequent tremors in Burma (Myanmar), including:
A 6.8-magnitude quake in 2016 near Mandalay
A 5.8-magnitude quake in 2023 near the Thai-Myanmar border
Bangkok, Thailand, is not on a major fault, but it can experience shaking from distant quakes, as seen in this event.
Could a Tsunami Hit Thailand After an Earthquake?
Most Thailand earthquakes are inland, reducing tsunami risks. However, coastal regions like Phuket remain vulnerable if a major quake strikes the Andaman Sea. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami serves as a reminder of this threat.
Earthquake Safety Tips for Thailand and Myanmar Residents
If you feel shaking in Bangkok or elsewhere:
1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On – Protect yourself under a sturdy table.
2. Stay Indoors – Avoid balconies or glass windows.
3. Evacuate if Necessary – If in a coastal area, move inland in case of a tsunami warning.
Conclusion
The 7.7-magnitude Myanmar earthquake demonstrated how seismic activity in one country can impact another, as seen with the Bangkok high-rise pool spill. While Thailand earthquakes are infrequent, understanding building resilience and safety measures is crucial.
For real-time updates, check the USGS Earthquake Map or local Thailand news sources.
FAQs About the Thailand Earthquake and Myanmar Quake
Can a Myanmar earthquake cause damage in Bangkok?
Yes, strong quakes in Myanmar (Burma) can be felt in Bangkok, especially in high-rise buildings.
Why did the pool water spill in Bangkok?
The high-rise’s swaying motion caused the water to slosh violently, leading to overflow.
Is Thailand at risk of a major earthquake?
While rare, Thailand can experience shaking from nearby quakes, but major fault lines are mostly in Myanmar.
Thai Meteorological Department
CNN Report on the Myanmar Earthquake
This event serves as a reminder of nature’s power—and the importance of engineering in keeping us safe. Stay informed and prepared!
