Bangladesh, Myanmar: Disruptions due to Cyclone Mocha ongoing across parts of western and northern Myanmar and southeastern Bangladesh as of May 19 /update 1

Event

Disruptions are ongoing across parts of southeastern Bangladesh and western and northern Myanmar as of May 19, following the passing of Cyclone Mocha. The storm crossed the coast between Kyaukpyu township in Myanmar's Rakhine State and Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh's Chittagong Division as a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm around midday MST May 14. The storm weakened rapidly upon making landfall, and it transitioned into a low-pressure area as it tracked across northern Myanmar and into Yunnan Province, China, on May 15.

Damage has been reported across parts of Chin, Kachin, and Rakhine states, as well as Saigang Region in Myanmar. Parts of western Rakhine State around the state capital Sittwe have been worst affected by the storm. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surge triggered flooding and landslides in the region. As of late May 19, authorities have reported at least 145 fatalities; hundreds of others have been injured. The storm has caused extensive damage in the area, with tens of thousands of homes believed to have been damaged. The full extent of the damage in the region has been slow to emerge due to widespread communication failures caused by the storm. Authorities have declared 17 townships across Rakhine State as natural disaster-affected areas following the storm's impact. Approximately 150,000 people across other parts of northern Myanmar are also reported to have been affected by the storm. Around 1,200 houses have been damaged or destroyed by the storm in parts of Chin State, and around 50 houses have been destroyed in Saigang Region. Four townships in Chin State have also been declared natural disaster-affected areas by authorities.

Authorities in Bangladesh have reported around 13,000 homes were destroyed or damaged in Cox's Bazaar District (including St Martin's Island), Chittagong Division, following the passing of the storm. Hundreds of thousands of people have been affected by the storm, and around 15-20 people suffered minor injuries. Authorities had evacuated hundreds of thousands of people in the most at-risk areas ahead of the storm's approach. Damage assessments are ongoing.

Protracted transport and business disruptions are almost certain in affected areas as emergency crews continue recovery efforts; utility disruptions will probably occur over the coming days and weeks. Shortages of fuel and other essential goods are likely. Driving conditions may be difficult on rural routes and regional highways.

Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding may increase the incidence of insect-borne 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

Monitor local media for updates and advisories on weather conditions. Make allowances for possible supply chain disruptions in affected areas. Do not drive on flooded roads. Use extreme caution in low-lying areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for flooding. 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. Prepare for possible communication disruptions, including mobile phone and internet services.

Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect-borne and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Review contingency plans and be prepared to move quickly to shelters if evacuation orders are issued. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.