Yangon: A moderate 5.6-magnitude earthquake shook parts of northwestern Myanmar early today causing no casualties but damaging Buddhist temples believed to date to
the 11th century, officials and residents said.
The moderate earthquake occurred just after 2 am with the epicentre about 418 kilometres northwest of the commercial capital, Yangon, said Thein Htay, an official from the national Meteorological Department.
The quake was felt in several towns in the northwestern Magway Division, none of which are densely populated or have high-rise buildings, he said. There were no known casualties.
Residents reported damage to two ancient Buddhist temples in Ohn Pwetaw village and a pagoda in Yay Nan Chaung, saying the structures were believed to have been built in the 11th century and were known for their colourful frescoes.
The extent of the damage was not immediately known. The residents requested anonymity because of fears of speaking to reporters in the military-ruled country.
Bureau Report
