Burmese American concern grows as death toll rises from quake

By Randall Yip, Executive Editor

Burmese Americans and others from Southeast Asia are frantically trying to reach loved ones in the quake-struck region of Myanmar.

A 7.7 magnitude quake struck the area on Friday, killing at least 144 people and injuring hundreds of others.

Swe Swe Aye, editor of the Myanmar Gazette, a Burmese language newspaper based in Southern California, says she is already hearing that the number of deaths is closer to 200.

Phone and internet service is knocked out in parts of Central Myanmar, also known as Burma. Swe Swe Aye says that’s only adding to the anxiety of loved ones in the United States.

Reports indicate that the earthquake caused buildings to collapse from Myanmar to Thailand. You can see video here of the quake’s destruction.

“People living here are very concerned for the situation in Myanmar,” she said. “Cities like Taninthayi, Sagaing and surrounding areas have had lots of destruction-buildings falling down.”

In addition, many Burmese people work in construction in Thailand where damage is also reported.

Swe Swe Aye anticipates Burmese Americans will be organizing relief drives for their home country, but for now, concern centers around their loved ones.

This is a developing story that will be updated as information becomes available.