Myanmar earthquake released power of ‘334 atomic bombs’, expert warns of aftershocks

The powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake which jolted Myanmar on Friday (March 29) released energy comparable to more than 300 atomic bombs, a geologist told CNN, warning of ongoing aftershocks in the region.

“The force released by such an earthquake is equal to about 334 atomic bombs,” geologist Jess Phoenix said.

According to local authorities, the death toll has surpassed 1,600, while the US Geological Survey estimated fatalities could exceed 10,000 based on earlier projections.

Phoenix also cautioned that aftershocks could persist for months as the Indian tectonic plate continues colliding with the Eurasian plate beneath Myanmar.

She further noted that Myanmar’s ongoing civil war and communication blackout are hindering the outside world from grasping the full extent of the disaster.

Phoenix also warned that Myanmar’s catastrophe will only worsen due to the country’s ongoing civil war. The conflict, combined with a communication blackout, is obstructing the outside world from grasping the full impact of the earthquake.