Myanmar: 5000 people displaced by flooding in southern Myanmar

Event

Flooding from intense monsoon rains has displaced over 5000 people in the southern Myanmar region of Tanintharyi as of Monday, July 23. Heavy monsoon rains in the region and further north have resulted in high flood stages along the river, damaging infrastructure, homes, and farmland in the region. Government natural disaster committees reported registering over 5000 people in Myeik district near the mouth of the Tanintharyi River. Other smaller communities along the river are likely affected as well.

The river is slowly settling, with flood levels decreasing from 8 m (26 ft) to 7.6 m (25 ft) on Sunday, July 22. High water levels are expected to continue, making transportation difficult through the area. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue throughout the monsoon season.

Context

Heavy rain is common during the monsoon season in Myanmar, which typically lasts from May to October. Since the beginning of June, dozens of people have been killed in monsoon-related incidents across the country.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, to avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rains.