CIEE Security Alert – Bangkok

Severe impacts have been reported in Bangkok as damage assessments continue across the region following a magnitude-7.7 earthquake in far southeastern Sagaing Region in central Myanmar at around 12:50 March 28. The epicenter was approximately 16 km (10 miles) north-northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar.

Despite being around 1000 km (621 miles) south-southeast of the epicenter, the earthquake has caused severe impacts in Bangkok. A high-rise building in Chatuchak Park collapsed due to the shaking, trapping dozens of people; authorities have confirmed one fatality, 50 others injured, and one person missing. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) suspended operations for around 20 minutes following the quake. Metro and rail service disruptions have also been reported, Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has declared a state of emergency in Bangkok.

At this time, we have no reports that any CIEE Thailand participants have been impacted by the earthquake.

Participants have been reminded of safety measures and to follow local guidance. As this is a developing situation, CIEE will continues to monitor the situation closely and remain in contact with our participants.