British tourists in Thailand have been issued a critical safety warning after a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, sending strong tremors across Southeast Asia, including Bangkok.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance, warning of potential aftershocks and urging British nationals in the region to exercise extreme caution.

Bangkok Buildings Damaged, Hundreds Evacuated

The quake, which struck on Friday morning, caused structural damage to buildings in Bangkok, with reports of people being trapped under rubble in the Chatuchak district. Hundreds of people have been evacuated from buildings in the Thai capital, a city popular with international tourists.

Local authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely, and emergency services are responding to multiple reports of damage and casualties.

FCDO Urges Britons to Follow Local Advice

In its latest update, the FCDO warned British travellers:

“Aftershocks may occur following the initial earthquake. If you are in the area or planning to travel there, follow the advice of local authorities or your tour operator and monitor local media.”

Tourists were also encouraged to review earthquake preparedness advice from the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which includes information on how to act before, during, and after an earthquake.

British Nationals in Need of Assistance

The British Embassy in Bangkok remains open and is available for those requiring urgent assistance.

• Contact: +66 023058333

Myanmar Travel Advisory

While the quake’s epicentre was located in Myanmar, the FCDO continues to advise against all but essential travel to the country, citing ongoing conflict and instability. The situation there is said to be “increasingly volatile.”

Popular Tourist Destination Impacted

Thailand remains the most visited country in Southeast Asia, with millions of British tourists travelling there annually. The FCDO’s warning comes at a time when many are on holiday or planning trips to the region during the spring break period.