Temporary ceasefires announced by warring groups in Myanmar in the wake of last week’s devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake represent a rare de-escalation of a conflict that since 2021 has taken thousands of lives and uprooted more than 3 million people.

The 7.7 Myanmar temblor raises questions about earthquake preparedness in Southeast Asia — and California. What can the rest of the world learn?

The junta’s muddled and repressive response to the devastating March 28 earthquake show where its priorities really lie.