A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, the second-largest city in Myanmar, on 28 March 2025, followed by aftershocks that caused widespread destruction across the city as well as in Bago, Magway, Naypyidaw, Sagaing and parts of Shan State. 

Although the true scale of the disaster is still unknown, thousands have been killed and injured, and critical infrastructure has collapsed or sustained major damage, including hospitals, bridges and airports. The earthquake has compounded an already dire humanitarian situation, affecting an estimated 8.5 million people in the hardest-hit areas and deepening risks for the more than 3.5 million internally displaced people already facing conflict and insecurity across the country.

More than 2.2 million women of reproductive age and more than 110,000 pregnant women are estimated to be in the affected areas, many of whom are now without access to essential healthcare or protection services. Electricity, water and communications remain disrupted, and the destruction of health facilities has further strained access to life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare. Reports of increased psychosocial distress and exposure to gender-based violence are mounting, particularly among displaced women and adolescent girls.

UNFPA is responding with urgency. A rapid response team has been deployed to Mandalay, coordinating life-saving services through mobile clinics, local partners and a floating health unit. To help meet urgent needs, UNFPA is distributing thousands of kits containing essential health and hygiene items for women and girls, as well as clean delivery essentials for new mothers and pregnant women. UNFPA is also coordinating closely with partners to ensure continuity of care, protection and psychosocial support for women and girls across the hardest-hit areas.

The situation remains fluid, and access is challenging. Yet UNFPA is committed to reaching those most at risk, especially women and girls, with dignity, care and life-saving support.

Updated 3 April 2025