Myanmar earthquake: WFP ready to assist

Quake feared to worsen already serious food insecurity
, WFP Staff
A small crowd of people walk past a building destroyed by an earthquake
People look on as teams of rescue workers attempt to free residents trapped under the rubble of the destroyed Sky Villa Condominium development in Mandalay on March 29, 2025, a day after an earthquake struck central Myanmar. AFP/Sai Aung MAIN

In the wake of the 7.7 -magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar Friday (28 March), the World Food Programme (WFP) is working to understand the current needs of affected communities and stands ready to support.

The epicentre was close to areas affected by armed conflict with limited communications. Tremors were felt in Thailand, Bangladesh, Laos, India and China.

A line of rescue workers in Mandalay ascends rubble to find people in destroyed condomininium
Mandalay was close to the epicentre of the quake. WFP/Sai Aung MAIN

“This powerful earthquake hit the country at the worst possible time. With one in four in the country already facing acute food insecurity, Myanmar just can't afford another disaster,” said Sheela Matthew, WFP Deputy Country Director in Myanmar. “WFP has stocks of ready-to-eat food in our warehouses, and we are ready to respond as needed,” she added.

Myanmar is already facing a severe food crisis, with 15.2 million people – one in four – experiencing food insecurity in 2025. WFP is deeply concerned about the potential worsening of humanitarian needs in the aftermath of this disaster. 

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