A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Thailand and Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. While some buildings in Bangkok and other affected regions collapsed, others swayed dramatically but remained intact. This raises a crucial question: Why do some buildings withstand earthquakes while others fail?
Understanding the Impact of Earthquakes on Buildings
How Ground Shaking Affects Structures
Earthquakes release seismic waves that shake the ground, transferring that energy to buildings. The way a building reacts to this shaking depends on multiple factors, including:
- Height & Flexibility: Taller buildings are designed to sway, absorbing seismic energy, while shorter buildings, being more rigid, experience stronger forces.
- Material Composition: Structures made of reinforced concrete, steel, or wood are more resistant to earthquakes than those made of unreinforced masonry or stucco.
- Engineering Techniques: Features like reinforced joints, trusses, and base isolators help distribute seismic energy and minimize damage.
Why Did Some Buildings in Bangkok Sway but Not Collapse?
1. Flexible vs. Rigid Structures
Skyscrapers are engineered to be flexible, allowing them to bend and absorb earthquake energy. On the other hand, shorter buildings, which are stiffer, cannot flex as much and tend to sustain more damage.
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2. Engineering & Earthquake-Resistant Designs
Advanced engineering plays a crucial role in determining whether a building withstands an earthquake. Some key earthquake-resistant features include:
- Base Isolators: These shock absorbers reduce the force transferred from the ground to the building.
- Reinforced Foundations: Stronger foundations help buildings remain stable during seismic activity.
- Damping Systems: These absorb vibrations, preventing excessive movement.
3. Construction Materials Matter
The choice of materials significantly impacts a building’s ability to resist earthquakes:
- Steel & Wood: Flexible and capable of absorbing shocks.
- Reinforced Concrete: Strong but may crack under stress.
- Unreinforced Brick & Masonry: Prone to collapse under intense shaking.
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Lessons from the Bangkok Earthquake
While Bangkok’s high-rise buildings swayed dramatically, most remained intact, proving that modern engineering and construction practices are crucial for earthquake mitigation. However, experts warn that many buildings in the region are not designed to withstand strong quakes, highlighting the need for stricter building regulations and retrofitting older structures.
Final Thoughts
The Thailand earthquake serves as a wake-up call for improved earthquake preparedness, building codes, and public awareness. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, ensure that your home or workplace follows earthquake-resistant construction standards.
