What Caused the Evacuation of Over 10,000 People in Southern Myanmar?
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Synopsis
As flooding engulfs southern Myanmar, over 10,000 people are forced to evacuate their homes. Emergency teams are working tirelessly to provide shelter and supplies, while the health ministry combats rising dengue fever cases. This situation highlights the urgent need for disaster preparedness in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Over 10,000 people evacuated due to flooding.
- Emergency shelters set up for affected residents.
- Health ministry addressing rising dengue fever cases.
- Local organizations are actively involved in rescue efforts.
- Heavy rainfall caused river levels to rise dangerously high.
Naypyidaw, July 31 (NationPress) In total, 10,395 individuals from 2,298 households have been relocated to 24 temporary rescue shelters due to severe flooding in Hpa-an township, Kayin state, as reported by the state-owned Myanmar Radio and Television on Wednesday night.
The evacuation was conducted by disaster management teams, firefighters, the Myanmar Red Cross Society, and local organizations on Wednesday, as the Thanlwin River surged beyond safety levels following intense rainfall, according to Xinhua News Agency.
The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology announced on Thursday that the river in Hpa-an has risen to approximately six feet above the danger threshold and is projected to remain perilous for another day.
The Kayin State Government, alongside various donors, is supplying essential food items, while the Ministry of Health is providing medical assistance and services, the report detailed.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Myanmar Fire Services Department (MFSD) reported that 2,851 residents from 771 households were evacuated in Myawaddy township of Kayin state due to flooding.
The MFSD executed this evacuation on Tuesday as the Thaungyin River exceeded danger levels after heavy rain, it stated.
The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology indicated that the river in Myawaddy has risen about 12 feet above the danger level and is also expected to remain a risk for another day.
Affected residents have been transferred to temporary rescue camps, stated the MFSD.
On Tuesday, the Myanmar Fire Services Department reported that 2,267 individuals from 461 households were evacuated across four townships in eastern Myanmar's Shan state due to flooding. This flooding, instigated by mountain runoff from heavy rain early Monday, affected the townships of Yatsauk, Aungban, Kalaw, and Pindaya.
In Pindaya township, six residents lost their lives and three were injured as of Tuesday morning. Rescue teams from the MFSD transported affected individuals to monasteries and playgrounds.
Meanwhile, in light of the increasing dengue fever fatalities, the Myanmar health ministry has been implementing preventive strategies, which include guidance for schools, households, and public spaces.
Health teams are conducting surveillance, spraying insecticides, and adding larvicide to water containers with the assistance of relevant departments.
In 2024, the country reported 6,400 cases and 15 deaths due to dengue fever, as stated by the ministry.
Point of View
It is clear that the urgency of the situation in southern Myanmar requires immediate action and support. The government and local organizations are stepping up to provide aid, but the rising cases of dengue fever and the scale of the flooding underscore the need for comprehensive disaster preparedness and health services. Our nation must rally together to assist those in need and prevent future tragedies.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are affected by the flooding in Myanmar?
The flooding has primarily affected Hpa-an township and Myawaddy township in Kayin state, as well as multiple townships in Shan state.
How many people have been evacuated due to the floods?
Over 10,000 individuals have been evacuated from their homes across various affected townships.
What measures are being taken for those evacuated?
Evacuated individuals are being housed in temporary rescue shelters, and the government is providing food supplies and medical services.
Is dengue fever a concern in the affected areas?
Yes, the health ministry has reported rising cases of dengue fever and is implementing preventive measures in response.
What caused the flooding in Myanmar?
The flooding was primarily caused by heavy rainfall and the subsequent rise of local rivers beyond danger levels.
