A significant 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocked Myanmar on Friday, centered near Mandalay, the country's second-largest city, as reported by the United States Geological Survey. The quake occurred at approximately 12:50 PM local time, causing buildings to tremble and shaking felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand.

Residents reported intense shaking, leading to immediate fears of damage and potential casualties. Emergency services are mobilizing as local authorities assess the situation in Mandalay and its vicinity. The seismic event serves as a stark reminder of the tectonic activity in the region, and authorities are advising residents to stay alert for possible aftershocks.

As this is a rapidly developing story, updates from emergency management agencies and news outlets are expected throughout the day.