A series of powerful earthquakes in Myanmar on March 28, 2025, sent violent shockwaves into Bangkok, forcing multiple luxury hotels to close or limit operations. The tremors caused rooftop infinity pools to overflow violently, sending massive waves of water crashing down buildings and injuring people below. Structural damage and electrical failures have also been reported, leaving tourists and staff in chaos.
Two strong earthquakes—measuring 7.7 and 6.4 in magnitude—struck Myanmar near the Thai border. The force was so intense that high-rise hotels in Bangkok swayed dangerously. Glass windows shattered, and rooftop pools, designed to blend seamlessly with the skyline, turned into hazards as water surged over the edges like waterfalls.
Videos shared online show terrifying scenes of swimming pools sloshing violently, spilling water onto streets below. Guests were seen screaming as they fled pool decks, struggling to escape the waves. Furniture and glass broke as buildings shook for nearly a full minute.
James Chen, a guest at the Banyan Tree Bangkok, captured viral footage of water cascading off the rooftop. “It looked like a waterfall shooting off the building. I’ve never seen anything like it,” he said. Emma Sullivan, a tourist at the Lebua State Tower’s Sky Bar, recalled: “The pool water started rolling like an ocean wave, then just poured over the side. People were screaming, grabbing their things, and running for the stairs.”
Several luxury hotels have reported serious issues, including water damage to electrical systems from overflowing pools and cracked support structures in at least two buildings. Broken glass and debris littered pool decks and lobbies. Dr. Suchinda Pattanapong, a structural engineer, warns that saltwater from pools can weaken concrete and damage wiring, leading to hidden long-term risks.
The following major hotels have announced closures or limited services: Waldorf Astoria Bangkok, Marriott Marquis Bangkok, InterContinental Bangkok Sukhumvit, The Banyan Tree Bangkok, Rosewood Bangkok, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, S/O Bangkok, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, and Lebua at State Tower. Guests with upcoming reservations should contact their hotels directly for updates.
Authorities warn that aftershocks could continue for days. Safety recommendations include leaving pool areas immediately if tremors are felt, using stairs instead of elevators during evacuations, staying away from windows, following staff instructions without delay, and keeping an emergency kit with passports, medicine, water, and a flashlight.
Inspectors are currently assessing the damage, and some hotels may remain closed for repairs. Travelers planning trips to Bangkok should check for updates before arriving. The city’s famous skyline now faces an unexpected danger from what were once its most luxurious and tranquil features.
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