A major, 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck in the South Pacific Ocean on Monday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The quake prompted a brief “Tsunami Threat” for Tonga. Preliminary reports from the U.

A rescue team in Mandalay, the city closest to the earthquake's epicentre, tells the BBC they "are digging people out with our bare hands".

The military government has made a rare appeal for help, but aid groups are hampered by infrastructure damage and an ongoing civil war.

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is in the throes of a prolonged and bloody civil war, which is already responsible for a massive humanitarian crisis.

King Charles has sent a message of condolence to the people of Myanmar following the devastating earthquake, while continuing his recovery after a brief hospital stay. In a message shared on social media, he expressed shock and sadness over the loss of life, destruction of homes, and damage to sacred sites.

The quake hit 10 miles from Mandalay, Myanmar, and tremors reached Thailand. At least 144 people died, Myanmar’s military junta said, and the toll is expected to rise.

Rescue operations are underway in the major stricken cities of Mandalay, the country’s No. 2 city, and Naypyitaw, the capital.

Modeling by the United States Geological Survey suggested the number of deaths was likely to surpass 10,000. Mandalay, a city of around 1.5 million people, was hard hit. People were stocking up on fuel and food in preparation for days without power,