According to geologist Jess Phoenix, the 7.7 magnitude earthquake which jolted Myanmar on Friday released energy comparable to more than 300 atomic bombs, news portal CNN reported. The news portal cited the geologist as further warning of further aftershocks in the region.

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“The force released by such an earthquake is equal to about 334 atomic bombs,” CNN quoted the geologist.

The earthquake near the epicentre Mandalay, brought down scores of buildings and damaged several other infrastructures. Amid the ongoing relief efforts, the smell of death has engulfed across the region. The rescuers are also struggling with hampered by buckled roads, downed bridges, spotty communications and the challenges of operating in a country in the midst of a civil war. Notably, a 5.1 magnitude aftershock Sunday afternoon prompted screams of worry from the residents.

Read Also: 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar; Emergency Declared In Bangkok

The earthquake had also hit Thailand killing around 17 Bangkok killing over 10. Several high storey buildings collapsed , with many still missing in the debris.

However, despite the devastating quake with significant damage, Myanmar’s junta has pressed ahead with its campaign of air strikes at the rebel sites. After the military increasingly failed in the battlefield, losing control over the swathes of territory, the country has relied more on air strike given its air defense superiority with fighter jets provided by Russia, its longstanding ally and major arms supplier.

As per a non-profit organisation Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED), the number of military air strikes on civilians has risen throughout the four-year civil war, with nearly 800 in 2024 alone.