The death toll from a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has jumped to nearly 700, state-run media reported on Saturday.
MRTV reported that 694 people have been found dead and another 1,670 injured, according to a statement from the military-led government.
The earthquake struck at midday on Friday with an epicentre not far from Mandalay, Myanmar’s second biggest city, sending buildings in many areas toppling to the ground and causing widespread damage.
In neighbouring Thailand, at least six people died in Bangkok, where a high-rise under construction collapsed.
Authorities said 22 were injured and 101 were missing from three construction sites, including the high-rise.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said more people were believed to be alive in the wreckage as search efforts continued on Saturday morning.
China, Russia and India dispatched rescuers to Myanmar, which was rocked by a powerful earthquake that caused extensive damage.
Malaysia’s government said it will deploy disaster relief teams to Yangon.