Following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand on March 28, cast members of HBO’s “The White Lotus” have publicly expressed their condolences and support for those affected.
The earthquake, which has claimed more than 1,600 lives in Myanmar, with thousands more injured or missing, also impacted parts of Thailand, including Bangkok, where 10 fatalities have been reported.
Patrick Schwarzenegger, an actor in the upcoming season and son of Arnold Schwarzenegger, shared the show’s message on his social media, adding, “Praying for Thailand.”
Actress Leslie Bibb also paid tribute to the affected areas, posting a photo from her time in Thailand and writing, “Thailand, you are in my heart.”
Thai singer and international pop icon Lalisa Manobal, widely known as Lisa from Blackpink, also voiced her support.
“Sending prayers to everyone affected by the earthquake. Please stay safe,” she wrote on Instagram.
The earthquake struck at midday, bringing down buildings, cutting off power, and disrupting transportation across affected areas. Myanmar’s military government has declared a state of emergency in six regions as rescue operations continue. The quake’s aftershocks, including a significant 6.4-magnitude tremor, have further complicated relief efforts.
According to the Associated Press, the death toll has surged as officials struggle to assess the full extent of the damage. The latest figures indicate that at least 1,644 people have lost their lives, with the number of injured climbing to 3,408. Meanwhile, at least 139 people remain unaccounted for, raising concerns that the final toll could be higher as rescue teams work through the wreckage.
Compounding the crisis is Myanmar’s ongoing civil conflict, which has already led to a humanitarian crisis in the region. The unstable security situation makes it difficult for aid workers to move freely and deliver much-needed relief, further complicating rescue efforts.
In Thailand, the tremors rocked the greater Bangkok area, sending people rushing out of buildings to seek safety. Emergency response teams have been deployed to assist those affected, with the Thai government monitoring structural damage and providing aid to survivors.
The international community has also stepped in to support relief efforts with rescue teams and humanitarian aid.
