BANGKOK, August 21 — A quiet Tuesday morning turned tense for many in Bangkok as a 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coast of Myanmar, gently but unmistakably shaking buildings and nerves across the Thai capital and nearby provinces.
According to the Earthquake Observation Division of Thailand’s Meteorological Department, the quake occurred at 9:58 AM, 10 kilometers below the surface and approximately 211 kilometers southwest of Mae Sot in Thailand’s Tak province. Though its epicenter lay beyond the country’s borders, the tremors were strong enough to be felt hundreds of kilometers away.
For many office workers in high-rise buildings, the momentary swaying caused concern, prompting brief evacuations in parts of Bangkok. Residents shared their experiences on social media, describing subtle movements of ceiling lights and office chairs, while some buildings initiated safety protocols just in case.
Thankfully, as of now, no injuries or structural damage have been reported in Thailand. Authorities continue to monitor the situation.
This isn’t the first seismic event to touch Thailand this year. Just months ago, in March, a stronger 6.4-magnitude earthquake shook the northern province of Nan. That quake damaged homes and historic temples, although, fortunately, it did not claim any lives.
Today’s tremor serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature — and the importance of being prepared, even when danger feels distant.
