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Is Bangkok Safe to Visit 7 days After Earthquake? What Medical Tourists Should Know

  • Writer: DocDocDash
    DocDocDash
  • Apr 4
  • 2 min read

Bangkok, Thailand — Just a week after a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake shook Myanmar, its tremors rippled through Southeast Asia, reaching as far as Bangkok, where one high-rise under construction tragically collapsed. With 22 fatalities, 35 injuries, and 74 people still missing, travelers — especially medical tourists — are now questioning the safety of visiting Thailand’s capital.


Rescue workers in safety gear search through rubble of collapsed building. Debris is gray and chaotic, emphasizing a somber, urgent mood.
Chatuchak Building collapsed after earthquake

The Earthquake and Its Epicenter


The earthquake originated near Mandalay, Myanmar, roughly 1,000 kilometers (640 miles) from Bangkok. Myanmar bore the brunt of the disaster, but Bangkok still experienced strong tremors that triggered structural damages and widespread evacuations.


Map showing 7.7-magnitude earthquake epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar, with red circles.
Epicenter of Earthquake

What Happened in Bangkok?


• High-Rise Collapse in Sathon District: A 34-story building under construction collapsed after tremors shook the city. Many workers fled the site, but rescue efforts are ongoing with dozens unaccounted for.


• Citywide Evacuations: Panic swept across Bangkok as residents and tourists evacuated high-rises in central areas like Silom, with streets filled with frightened crowds.


• Hospitals Affected: Several hospitals were temporarily evacuated due to structural safety checks. In a dramatic moment, a pregnant woman gave birth safely on the street, assisted by emergency medics.


• Infrastructure Review: Bridges connecting towers and older buildings are being examined. Emergency crews and engineers were immediately deployed to assess risks and conduct repairs.


Crowd of people gathered outside a building on a sunny day, with a glass facade and trees nearby.
Tourists and locals evacuated high-rises in central areas

Casualties & Rescue Missions


• Current Toll: Authorities report 22 confirmed deaths, 35 injured, and over 100 still missing, many from construction zones.


• Search Operations: Crews are using drones, sniffer dogs, and heavy machinery in a race against time. The Sathon collapse remains the focal point of rescue efforts.


Rescue teams are working to rescue survivors under collapsed building in Chatuchak area.
Rescue teams are working in the area of collapsed building

Is It Safe to Travel to Bangkok Now?


The Thai government has acted quickly to restore public confidence. According to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the risk of aftershocks or a tsunami in Bangkok is minimal. Here’s the current situation:


• Airports are fully operational after inspections.

• Public transport systems like the BTS Skytrain and MRT are running normally.

• Hotels and clinics are undergoing official inspections and receiving safety certifications from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.


Crowded city street with heavy traffic and many motorbikes. Tall buildings and bright signs in the background. Busy and lively atmosphere.
Bangkok is back to normal after the earthquake

Important Tips for Medical Tourists


If you’re planning a medical procedure in Bangkok, here’s what you need to know:


• Confirm appointments directly with your chosen medical facility.

• Ask if they’ve completed a post-earthquake structural assessment.

• Book accommodation at hotels that have received a safety clearance from the Thai government.


Final Thoughts


While the earthquake was a shocking and tragic event, Bangkok’s swift response and focus on public safety have helped restore normalcy. For those seeking high-quality and affordable medical care, Bangkok remains a reliable destination — just make sure to stay informed, double-check safety protocols, and follow official updates.


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