In Video: Top Story with Tom Llamas – March 28 | NBC News NOW
Devastating Earthquake in Southeast Asia
A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck the heart of Myanmar and felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand, causing widespread destruction and chaos. The impact was devastating, with hundreds of people feared trapped under the rubble. Skyscrapers collapsed, and buildings shook violently, sending people running for their lives. The death toll is expected to rise dramatically, and rescue workers are racing against time to find survivors.
Rise of Death Toll Expected
The epicenter of the earthquake is located in Myanmar, but its impact was felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand. The powerful quake triggered a massive response, with emergency workers, the army, and the United Nations Racing against time to pull people out of the rubble. Janice Macky Freyer, NBC International Correspondent, reports from the scene:
"The full scale of the earthquake is still unclear, though experts fear economic loss in the billions of dollars. The nearby Sir Raj hospital was forced to evacuate patients, and rescue operation continues into the night. The woman waiting for her niece who’s 23 years old and missing up in the hospital, said ‘I never thought something like this could happen’."
Desperate Mission to Find Survivors
Rescue workers in the areas that were hit the hardest are facing an uphill battle to find survivors, with time running out. Janice Macky Freyer reports from the scene:
"The people are in shock. They are terrified. The government is asking for international help. The UN is sending a team, and the US is sending a team. The logistical challenges here are immense. Time is crucial. We are trying to get aid to the people who need it."
International Assistance Sought
Janice Macky Freyer joins us now to discuss the international response to the disaster. Janice, thanks for joining us. Can you tell us more about the international response to the disaster?
Utah Bans Fluoride in Drinking Water
In other news, Utah has become the first state to ban fluoride from public water sources. The move follows a growing trend of opposition to the mineral, with critics arguing that people should have the choice to ingest or not. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association support the use of fluoridated water, which has been shown to reduce tooth decay by up to 25%.
Health Concerns Raised
However, critics like RFK Jr have raised concerns over the potential risks associated with fluoride. George Sis, NBC News Health Check, reports on the controversy:
"Critics of fluoride argue that it’s a poison, and that it can cause health problems like bone cancer. However, the science is clear: the benefits of fluoridation far outweigh the risks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that the evidence supporting the use of fluoridated water is strong."
Conclusion
In conclusion, the devastating earthquake in Southeast Asia has left a trail of destruction and chaos. Rescue workers are fighting against time to find survivors, and international assistance is being sought to aid in the relief efforts. In other news, Utah has become the first state to ban fluoride from public water sources, sparking a controversy over the mineral’s potential risks and benefits.
