The incident involved a magnitude 8.2 earthquake with a depth of 10 kilometers, located approximately 326 kilometers northwest of Pang Mapha District in Mae Hong Son Province, and occurred at 13:20 (1:20 PM). The tremors were felt across Bangkok, the northern, and central regions of Thailand. A significant aftershock followed as well. (recorded link)
Widespread Rumors
Thai PBS Verify found a large number of rumors being spread. Among the most prominent was the claim that:
- The Bhumibol Bridge’s suspension cables were breaking
(recorded links: here, here, and here)
We have verified the case concerning the Bhumibol Bridge and found that the bridge was closed temporarily for inspection only. The Ratchaburana District Office stated that the closure was due to fallen debris (fragments of rock), not due to any structural damage.
Later, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) posted an update on its official Facebook page stating that:
#Update – Traffic routes remain normal on both Rama III Bridge and Bhumibol Bridge.
#Earthquake (recorded links: here and here)
Rumor Debunked: Bhumibol Bridge Cables Are Intact
In response to circulating rumors that the cables on Bhumibol Bridge were about to snap following the earthquake, Thai PBS reported that Mr. Montri Dechasakulsom, Director-General of the Department of Rural Roads (DRR), confirmed there is no cause for concern.
According to Mr. Montri, the rumors spreading on social media claiming the bridge cables had snapped and the structure had been closed are false. The Ring Road Maintenance Division, under the Bureau of Road Maintenance, which oversees Bhumibol Bridge, conducted an immediate on-site inspection and confirmed that all cables remain intact and the bridge is in good condition.
Baiyoke Tower Tilting Rumor
In addition, we have also come across rumors related to the “tilting of Baiyoke Tower” circulating through various social media posts. (links here, here, and here)
In response to the situation, “Beer Baiyoke” posted a message via the Beerbaiyoke page, stating: “Hello everyone, I know many of you have been waiting for this post. The reason it’s a bit delayed is because I’ve been taking care of guests and checking things thoroughly with engineers at the tower. I’ve received a lot of messages — thank you so much for your concern.”
“This isn’t the first earthquake we’ve experienced, and we’re and we are well-prepared when it comes to ensuring safety and taking care of our guests. when it comes to safety and taking care of guests.
Please note:untrue.normal, it has happened before. We have large advertisement stickers on the building, and sometimes when removing them, the paint comes off. We’ll repaint it to make it look nice again. 😅
“When I heard the quake was strong, I was outside. I looked around and saw that no nearby buildings had any damage. I wasn’t worried about the Baiyoke Tower, we’re confident in its integrity. But I was concerned about how our guests and staff were feeling. So I canceled my meeting, hopped on a motorcycle, and headed back. The traffic was insane today.”
Please note: Baiyoke Tower was constructed to withstand earthquakes much stronger than this one. This time, the epicenter wasn’t in Bangkok as far as I know, there’s no fault line here. Most quakes that affect us usually originate in Myanmar, like this one.
Thank you for your concern. I hope everyone is safe.
I studied in Japan, a country that experiences earthquakes frequently. I’ve felt ones way stronger than this. The first time, I was shocked too. But people there are taught from a young age: find cover from falling objects, leave buildings, turn off water and gas, and above all, don’t panic.
Thank you to all Baiyoke Tower staff and everyone in our group who worked hard to take care of our guests. More than anything, we love and care about the safety of our guests.
So to all the guests who felt the quake — free food and drinks for you!!! 🎉
Phatporn Sripirote
Please note:
Our buffet is temporarily closed today. We’re doing a thorough lift system inspection with specialists first.
Phatporn Sripirote
Please note:
It’s not surprising that people are worried about Baiyoke. I’m actually glad it’s still a landmark as the tallest tower in Thailand.
Final P.S. This tower’s foundation goes way deep underground, much deeper than you can see with extremely strong pilings, much more so than most buildings. Not a single pane of glass has broken (and glass is usually the weakest point).
Life goes on. Stay strong, Thailand. Sending love from the Baiyoke Tower team 😊❤️ — Admin Beer” (Saved link)
Regarding the Baiyoke Tower’s peeling paint or alleged cracks, we compared images that were claimed to show cracks on the building with older images. It was found that the Baiyoke Tower has had paint chipping since 2011, which is when images were first recorded on Google Maps.
The picture claiming the Baiyok Tower was cracked
Images of Baiyoke Tower from Google Maps in 2011
Images of Baiyoke Tower from Google Maps in 2020
Images of Baiyoke Tower in 2024
Regarding the earthquake incident on March 28, 2025, at 1:20 PM, we would like to inform you that the situation at Baiyoke Sky Hotel (Baiyoke Tower 2) is completely safe. Upon inspection, no signs of damage to the building’s glass were found (which is the most delicate part of the building). Furthermore, Baiyoke Tower 2 was designed to withstand earthquakes.
During the earthquake, the hotel staff promptly carried out evacuation procedures and ensured all guests were safely evacuated according to established protocols and safety measures.
Thank you for your attention.
Best regards,
Baiyoke Sky Hotel
***Edited Additional Information***
The hotel has conducted a thorough inspection, and there has been no damage whatsoever. The most vulnerable part of the building, the glass, was also checked and showed no cracks. The building’s design allows it to withstand seismic forces that are stronger than those typically designed for other buildings. The structure is designed to “flex” or “sway” in a controlled manner during earthquakes to prevent catastrophic damage or collapse. (saved link)
