Myanmar: Tachilek Airport closed due to flooding

Event

As of Thursday, June 28, Tachilek Airport (THL), located in Shan state, has been closed until further notice following heavy rain-related flooding ongoing since June 26. Residual disruptions are possible following the eventual reopening, notably if the flooding has damaged THL's runway.

Continued rain and storms are likely in the coming days amid the ongoing monsoon season; as such further incidents of flooding and landslides, and associated transportation disruptions, are possible.

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

Travelers are advised to contact their airline for more information.

Individuals present in Shan state 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.