Web Desk
Sid Simone, a University of Houston graduate, moved to Bangkok two months ago to film a vegan travel show.
She never expected to witness a devastating disaster unfold so close to her new home.
Bangkok authorities confirmed that a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake, with its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar, struck the region on Friday at midday.
A strong 6.4 aftershock followed, causing severe damage.
Three construction sites, including a high-rise building under development, collapsed. Officials reported 10 fatalities, 16 injuries, and 101 people missing.
Bangkok, a bustling city of 11 million residents, is often compared to New York City for its fast-paced lifestyle.
Although Simone’s apartment remained intact, navigating the city after the quake was a challenge.
“For the past five-plus hours, all I can think about is that could have been me,” she said, recalling the destruction around her.
Simone was riding the metro rail when the quake hit. Initially, she mistook the tremors for normal train movement.
When the train stopped, she realized the jolt was from the earthquake. Businesses shut down, and transit systems came to a halt, leaving thousands stranded.
With taxis stuck in gridlock and fares soaring, she chose to walk home.
“The high-rise that fell is in a major shopping district, home to a famous outdoor market. Today, I could have been there. It’s a tourist hotspot,” she said.
Her apartment, about four miles from the collapse site, is now being inspected for structural damage.
“I feel like God put it in my spirit to stay on the outskirts that day,” Simone reflected.
Although she’s grateful for her safety, her heart goes out to those affected by the disaster.
