Myanmar’s death toll from the recent floods has risen to at least 113, according to the country’s military government. The floods were caused by heavy rains brought on by Typhoon Yagi, the strongest storm to hit Southeast Asia this year. The storm has also devastated parts of Vietnam and Thailand, where hundreds have lost their lives.
At least 320,000 people have been displaced in Myanmar, with 64 still missing, according to government spokesperson Zaw Min Tun. The government is actively conducting rescue and rehabilitation missions to address the ongoing crisis. Despite these efforts, the situation remains dire, with flooding still affecting large regions.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has identified central Myanmar as the hardest-hit area. Regions such as Naypyidaw, Mandalay, Magway, and Bago are severely affected. Shan, Mon, Kayah, and Kayin states are also among the hardest hit areas.
Flooding began last Monday, and by Friday, at least 74 people had already lost their lives. State media also reported widespread destruction, including the collapse of five dams, four pagodas, and over 65,000 houses.
In addition to the fatalities, Myanmar’s infrastructure has suffered significant damage. Landslides and destroyed communication lines are making it difficult to gather accurate information from affected regions. Rescue operations face significant challenges due to these damaged roads and downed phone and internet services.
The floods have added to Myanmar’s already difficult situation, as the country has been in turmoil since a military coup in February 2021. Violence and instability continue to affect large parts of the nation. About a third of Myanmar’s 55 million people currently need humanitarian assistance. However, many aid agencies, including the International Committee of the Red Cross, cannot reach certain areas due to access restrictions and security risks.
The increased frequency of extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and flooding, is linked to human-caused climate change. Warmer air holds more water vapor, making intense storms like Typhoon Yagi more common. Flooding has become more severe, not only due to climate factors but also human factors like poor flood defenses and land use practices.
Urgent international aid and improved climate resilience strategies are crucial to help Myanmar recover from this disaster and prepare for future storms.