Myanmar: Flood-related disruptions ongoing in southern regions as of July 30

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across southern Myanmar as of July 30. Heavy rainfall in recent weeks has led to rising river levels and widespread flooding. Floodwaters have affected more than 130,000 people from over 33,000 households. The worst-hit area is Magway Region, with over 53,000 people affected, more than 90 houses destroyed, and more than 20 houses damaged. Three fatalities occurred in Myawaddy Township of Kayin State July 27 when a river overflowed. Flooding has also killed at least one person in Sagaing Region and another person in Bago Region.

Authorities have evacuated at least 18,210 people in Bago Township of Bago Region and 4,985 people in Myawaddy Township of Kayin State. Flooded railway tracks and highways in Ayeyarwady Region and Mon State have resulted in transport disruptions. Parts of the Yangon-Mawlamyine Highway in Thaton Township flooded early July 27 and in Belin Township July 26.

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has warned that water levels in rivers across 13 towns in Ayeyarwady, Bago, Mon, and Kayin surpassed their warning marks July 29. Further showers are forecast across the region over the coming days and could exacerbate existing disruptions, particularly in areas where the ground is already saturated.

Disruptions may persist even after the flooding has subsided as authorities work to clear debris. Localized power outages and disruptions to telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding has impacted utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.