23 Mar 2022 | 11:53 AM UTC
Myanmar: Storm system to bring adverse weather across much of the country through at least March 24 /update 2
Storm system to bring adverse weather to much of Myanmar through at least March 24; flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Adverse weather associated with a storm system currently located over Rakhine State is forecast across much of Myanmar through at least March 24. The storm system made landfall near Haiggyikyun in Ayeyarwady Region early March 23 as a depression and has weakened to a low pressure area upon making landfall. As of 11:30 MST March 23, the storm system's center of circulation was located near Thandwe in Rakhine State. The system is forecast to continue tracking north-northeastwards inland towards Mindon in Magway Region. The system will continue to weaken and likely dissipate March 24.
Myanmar's Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has issued a well-marked low pressure warning advising that rain and thunderstorms will be fairly widespread across the country through at least March 24. Strong winds will lead to rough seas and large waves along parts of the Rakhine State coastline. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.
Authorities pre-emptively evacuated over 4,000 people in Ayeyarwady Region ahead of the approach of the storm system. Flights between Sittwe in Rakhine State and Yangon were canceled March 22 and were delayed March 23; however, all flights are scheduled to resume as normal March 24. Ferry services have been suspended on the Rakhine coast until March 24.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible if weather conditions prove hazardous.
Transport
The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at airports in the affected region and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast storm conditions. Heed all evacuation orders. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the high potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and any necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
