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A significant earthquake hit Myanmar, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities and the destruction of multiple structures. Despite being a seismic hotspot, the extent of the damage to buildings was widespread. Interestingly, Bangkok, a city not typically associated with earthquakes due to its distance from the epicenter, experienced the collapse of an unfinished high-rise building.

Causes of the Earthquake
The movement of tectonic plates, the Earth’s upper layer divided into sections, is a primary cause of earthquakes and volcanic activity. Myanmar is situated at the convergence of four tectonic plates – the Eurasian, Indian, Sunda, and Burma microplate. The Himalayas and the 2004 Tsunami stand as examples of geological activity in this region. The Sagaing fault, a major fault running through Myanmar, experienced a "strike-slip" movement, typical of the earthquake that occurred on Friday.

Why the Earthquake Had Such a Far-reaching Impact
The shallow depth of the earthquake, only 10km below the surface, contributed to the intense shaking felt at the surface. Additionally, the magnitude of 7.7 generated substantial energy comparable to the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. The earthquake’s extensive reach can be attributed to the straight nature of the fault, allowing seismic energy to propagate over long distances.

Factors Leading to Skyscraper Collapse in Bangkok
Although Bangkok saw multiple high-rise buildings swaying during the earthquake, only one, the unfinished headquarters for the auditor-general’s office, collapsed. Bangkok lacked comprehensive safety standards for earthquake-resistant building construction before 2009, leaving older buildings vulnerable. The collapse of the under-construction skyscraper could be attributed to the "flat slab" construction method, which is not ideal for earthquake-prone areas.

Myanmar’s Building Vulnerability
Mandalay in Myanmar, closer to the earthquake’s epicenter, experienced severe shaking compared to Bangkok. Building codes in Myanmar might not be strictly enforced due to economic challenges and political turmoil, leaving structures at risk during seismic events. Parts of Mandalay built on the Ayerwaddy River floodplain are particularly vulnerable to liquefaction, a process where soil behaves like a liquid during shaking. The likelihood of aftershocks poses an ongoing threat to buildings near fault lines.

In conclusion, the recent earthquake in Myanmar and its impact on Bangkok underscore the importance of stringent building codes and construction standards in earthquake-prone regions. Understanding seismic risks, geological features, and soil characteristics can help mitigate the potential damage caused by such natural disasters. Ongoing vigilance and preparedness are key to ensuring the safety of communities in seismic areas.