A powerful earthquake struck Southeast Asia on Friday, causing widespread devastation and panic across Thailand. The tremor, which claimed multiple lives and left several buildings in ruins, sent shockwaves through the capital, Bangkok, leading to dramatic scenes of chaos and destruction.
Moment of the 7.7 Magnitude powerful earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand 🇹🇭 (28.03.2025) pic.twitter.com/KOLTBVS4ES
— Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) March 28, 2025
One of the most striking visuals from the disaster was the sight of water gushing from rooftop swimming pools in high-rise hotels. These elevated pools, often designed for luxurious skyline views, became unintended symbols of the quake’s force as water spilled over their edges, cascading down the sides of buildings.
Read more: Israel warns of attacks ‘everywhere’ in Lebanon after rocket fire
Many of these pools are built with infinity edges, which contributed to the dramatic overflow seen in viral videos. The sudden sloshing of water added to the panic, as guests rushed to evacuate, fearing structural collapse.
Panicked guests, some still in bathrobes and swimwear, fled onto the streets as the city’s skyscrapers swayed under the force of the quake. Videos shared on social media captured torrents of water cascading down luxury hotel façades, adding to the surreal nature of the disaster.
In one of the hardest-hit areas, a building collapse trapped at least 81 people under the rubble, prompting an urgent rescue mission. Emergency teams worked tirelessly through the night, using heavy machinery and sniffer dogs to locate survivors. Officials have warned that the death toll could rise as assessments of the damage continue.
The quake was felt across multiple countries in the region, with authorities now assessing the full impact. Experts have warned of possible aftershocks, urging residents to remain on high alert.
Read more: Academy apologizes after stars say it ‘failed to defend’ Palestinian filmmaker
Thailand, not typically prone to major earthquakes, is now grappling with the aftermath of one of the most severe tremors in recent history. As rescue efforts continue, the nation watches anxiously, hoping for more survivors to be pulled from the wreckage.