Learn why a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar and caused damage far away in Bangkok. We explore the science behind earthquakes and building safety.
Why Did the Earthquake Happen in Myanmar?
Earthquakes happen because the Earth’s surface is made of big pieces called tectonic plates. These plates move around, sometimes bumping into each other. This bumping causes earthquakes. Myanmar sits on top of several of these plates, making it prone to earthquakes.
The Sagaing Fault
A big crack in the Earth’s surface, called the Sagaing Fault, runs through Myanmar. The earthquake happened when these plates suddenly shifted along this fault. This fault is very long, so the earthquake was felt in many places.
Why Was the Earthquake Felt so Far Away?
The earthquake was very strong, and it happened relatively close to the surface of the Earth. This means the shaking was felt over a large area. Even Bangkok, far from the earthquake’s center, felt the shaking.
Bangkok’s Soft Soil
The soft soil in Bangkok made the shaking worse. Soft soil makes the ground move more during an earthquake.
Why Did a Building Collapse in Bangkok?
Only one building fell in Bangkok. This is likely because:
- Older buildings: Older buildings in Bangkok weren’t built to be strong enough to withstand earthquakes.
- Soft soil: The soft soil made the shaking stronger, putting more stress on buildings.
- Building quality: The building that fell might not have been built well.
Are Buildings in Myanmar Safe?
Myanmar has many earthquakes, but many buildings aren’t strong enough to survive. Poverty and problems with the government have made it hard to build strong buildings. This means more earthquakes could cause more damage.
Note: This information is for general understanding. For expert advice, contact professionals in the field.
Source; BBC.COM
