BANGKOK: Heavy monsoon rains have wreaked havoc in Myanmar’s southern regions, causing severe flooding and displacing more than 10,000 people. The relentless rainfall, particularly in the Bago region, led to the flooding of low-lying areas, with Bago township experiencing its highest recorded rainfall in 59 years, measuring 7.87 inches (200 millimeters). Myanmar’s Meteorological Department has forecasted continued rain and thundershowers across the country until Monday evening.
Lay Shwe Zin Oo, a senior official at the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief, and Resettlement, reported that the flooding forced residents to abandon their homes. Some areas in Bago were submerged in waters measuring 7-8 feet (2.44 meters) deep, while downtown areas faced flooding of 3-4 feet. The situation has been described as the worst in many years, with residents seeking refuge on higher floors and in relief camps.
“That Zin Maung, chairman of the Mizzima Thukha Charity Foundation, stated, “Almost the whole area of the town was flooded. It is the third flood in the town this year and the worst in many years.” Several monasteries in the town have opened relief camps, and charity organizations are working tirelessly to evacuate people from vulnerable areas.
Relief Activities in Myanmar
In Bago, 32 relief camps, schools, and Buddhist monasteries have been opened to shelter displaced individuals. The authorities are providing essential assistance, including food and drinking water, to those affected. Train services connecting major cities like Mandalay, Mawlamyine, and Yangon were disrupted due to flooded rail lines, causing widespread transportation issues.
Reports from Kyaikto township in southern Mon state indicated flooding in some neighborhoods due to mountain torrents, forcing 555 people into three relief camps.
Myanmar faces annual challenges from extreme weather during the monsoon season. The country endured a catastrophic event in 2008 when Cyclone Nargis claimed the lives of over 138,000 people. This year, the monsoon rains have already caused considerable damage, claiming lives, displacing thousands, and disrupting transportation in various states and regions.
