Myanmar is facing one of its worst natural disasters in recent years 😔. Torrential rains have unleashed severe flooding across the country, leaving at least 74 people dead and 89 missing as of Friday evening, according to state media reports.
Since last Monday, the relentless downpours 🌧️ have caused rivers to swell and burst their banks, submerging villages and towns. The flooding has affected 462 villages and wards across 64 townships in regions including Nay Pyi Taw, Bago, Mandalay, and Ayeyawady, as well as the states of Mon, Kayin, and Shan.
Search and rescue teams are working tirelessly 🛶 to locate the missing and provide aid to those stranded. However, efforts are hampered by damaged infrastructure 🚧 and disrupted communication lines 📵, making it challenging to reach some of the hardest-hit areas.
The disaster comes in the wake of Typhoon Yagi 🌪️, the strongest storm to hit Asia this year. The typhoon's adverse weather has also wreaked havoc in neighboring countries. Reports indicate that hundreds have lost their lives in Vietnam 🇻🇳 and Thailand 🇹🇭, with cities inundated by floodwaters.
In Myanmar, the floods have not only taken lives but also destroyed livelihoods. State media reports that five dams, four pagodas 🛕, and more than 65,000 houses have been destroyed. Families are left homeless, and cultural heritage sites have suffered significant damage.
The situation is evolving rapidly, and authorities are urging residents in affected areas to stay safe and heed evacuation orders. The international community is watching closely, and support efforts are expected to mobilize to assist Myanmar during this difficult time.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding tragedy. Our thoughts are with all those affected 🙏.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
