Hospitals became overwhelmed as injured residents arrived for urgent treatment, and rescue operations expanded rapidly across affected zones.
The tremor was also strongly felt across the border in China and into northern Thailand.
In cities such as Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, residents fled buildings as structures swayed.
Aftershocks continued to be reported, raising concerns about further collapses and complicating rescue and recovery efforts.
Emergency services across all three countries coordinated responses and damage assessments.
Survivors described scenes of panic as the ground shook violently without warning.
Many people escaped with only essential belongings, leaving homes behind as they sought safety in open areas.
The disaster has left widespread destruction, displacement, and uncertainty across the region.
Search-and-rescue efforts continue as communities cope with loss and the ongoing threat of additional aftershocks.
