Spatial dynamics of earthquake-induced displacement: integrating Sentinel-1 and hotspot analysis in Myanmar’s 2025 Mw 7.7 event for post-disaster resource planning

Myanmar has been experiencing intra-state conflict since 2021. Amid this crisis, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near the town of Mandalay on March 28, 2025, causing devastating damage. In the present study, a hotspot analysis of historical earthquakes across the country was conducted using USGS data, and the vertical displacement of the Mandalay region was determined using InSAR techniques. A century-scale historical event (1900-2025) assessment helps in the identification of high-risk areas, such as Mandalay and Pyay. Using the optimized Getis-Ord Gi statistic provides useful information for preparing risk reduction strategies. Sentinel-1 SLC (Single Look Complex) data were used to determine interferometric displacement measurements. Geocoding and stacking of pre (22/03/2025) and post-event (03/04/2025) images, along with Interferogram formation, phase filtering, and calculation of displacement, were performed. Initial results show a maximum displacement of 62 cm along the eastern side of the Sagaing fault line and a maximum of -22 cm vertical displacement on the western side. A cloud analytics-based Google Earth Engine web application was used for the visualization of these layers, supporting actionable insights for disaster response and risk reduction in the affected region. In addition to infrastructure losses, the earthquake caused severe damage to heritage structures that have long been at risk and have repeatedly been impacted by seismic activity in Myanmar. Thus, the study can help in the development of a more effective response strategy and regional economic resilience for earthquakes in South and Southeast Asia.