20 May 2022 | 11:33 AM UTC
Myanmar: Adverse weather forecast across southern regions through at least May 23
Heavy rainfall and strong winds forecast across southern Myanmar through at least May 23. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Adverse weather associated with a low pressure system is forecast across much of southern Myanmar through at least May 23. The well marked low pressure area has moved in from the North Andaman Sea over land near Mawlamyine, Mon State, May 20, reducing the chances that the system forms into a depression as it is likely to dissipate as it moves over land. However, the remnants of the system will bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to southern regions in the coming days, and could trigger flooding, landslides, and disruptions to business, transport, and utilities across affected areas.
Myanmar's Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has issued a well-marked low pressure warning advising that heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are likely to be widespread across Ayeyarwady, Bago, Taninthayi, and Yangon regions, as well as Kayin and Mon states May 20-21. Strong winds gusting up to 72 kph (45 mph) are possible in coastal areas, as well as will rough seas with waves of 3-4 meters (9-13 feet). A separate heavy rainfall and strong wind warning has been issued for Ayeyarwady, Bago, Taninthayi, and Yangon regions, as well as Kayin, Mon, and Rakhine states May 18-23. Daily rainfall totals of around 8 cm (3 inches) are possible in the affected areas, as well as thunderstorms, strong winds, and rough seas. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.
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.
