On March 28, 2025, Bangkok experienced a rare and powerful earthquake, with its origins traced to a 7.7-magnitude quake in neighboring Myanmar. The tremor was felt strongly across the Thai capital and caused widespread panic and significant disruption.
At approximately 1:38 am CDT, residents, expatriates, and tourists were jolted awake as buildings swayed, prompting mass evacuations from high-rise hotels and apartments.
A condominium under construction near Chatuchak market collapsed, trapping workers in the rubble and sparking an urgent rescue operation. The prime minister swiftly declared Bangkok an emergency zone, while city hall labeled it a disaster area, though the city’s airports reportedly remain operational.
Social media posts on X captured the chaos: traffic gridlock overwhelmed ride-hailing services like Grab and Bolt, tourists abandoned hotel check-ins, and sobbing crowds filled the streets. Power outages struck parts of the city, adding to the confusion as people sought safety on sidewalks. This unprecedented event has left Bangkok reeling, with the full extent of the damage and casualties emerging as rescue efforts continue.
Below are four of the most viewed videos circulating online, showcasing the earthquake’s impact:
ROOFTOP POOL: 7.7 Earthquake shakes Bangkok causing the water in rooftop pools to slosh out. pic.twitter.com/HmKcCgWg7O
— @amuse (@amuse) March 28, 2025
Shocking new video shows gigantic skyscraper shaking from side to side in Bangkok, Thailand following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake earlier today. pic.twitter.com/zU11GFCGGW
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) March 28, 2025
Incredible video out of Bangkok during 7.7 earthquake today😳😳
pic.twitter.com/ZKJH39cfWo— Spitfire (@DogRightGirl) March 28, 2025
ROOFTOP POOL: Bangkok: An earthquake rattles the city as swimmers in a towering skyscraper pool are rocked by waves. Water thrashes like a storm-tossed sea—but they hang on, riding it out with surreal calm. pic.twitter.com/FiZ1ud0SQS
— @amuse (@amuse) March 28, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people in Bangkok.