TASS FACTBOX. TASS has summarized the worst natural disasters of 2025 that caused significant fatalities and substantial material damage.
Myanmar quake
On March 28, Myanmar was hit by a 7.7-magnitude earthquake, followed by another of 6.4-magnitude. The epicenter was located west of Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city. Tremors were felt in Thailand and neighboring countries. At least 5,456 people were killed in the quakes. In April, the Russian Emergencies Ministry dispatched rescuers, search dog handlers, and medics to join the relief effort in Myanmar. The Russian medics provided assistance to 330 residents and inspected 88 damaged buildings.
Forest fires
In January, large-scale forest fires erupted in southern California, affecting Los Angeles, Ventura, and Orange counties. Strong winds contributed to the fires spreading rapidly, destroying more than 16,000 buildings. The direct death toll from the fires reached 30, while an estimated 440 people were killed indirectly, including from smoke inhalation and respiratory illnesses. The damage caused by the forest fires exceeded $61 billion.
