Trócaire responding to flooding in Myanmar

Trócaire is responding to flooding in Myanmar that has affected over 330,000 people and left tens of thousands homeless. 

The flooding was caused by Cyclone Komen, which made landfall on July 30th, and added to the monsoon rains already being experienced in Myanmar. Approximately 100 people are feared dead as a result of the flooding.  

Trócaire has a long presence in Myanmar and is delivering food, shelter, water, health services and other vital relief items to people affected. We are working with 15,000 people in the affected areas. 

In addition to people being forced from their homes, the flooding has also badly affected food production. Over 525,000 acres of farmland have been flooded, which will significantly disrupt the planting season and will have a knock-on impact on food security over the coming months. 

This image, taken by the BBC, shows the level of damage caused by flooding in areas of Myanmar.

Two states – Chin state and Rahkine state – have been worst affected. Transport links to remote areas in both states have been badly damaged. Over 90% of roads in certain areas are in need of repair. 

In Rahkine state, over 33,800 people have been evacuated and are living in 130 evacuation centres. Water levels are reported to have reached up to 10 feet in many areas. Although these levels are returning to normal, people will need support as they deal with the damage done to homes and farmland.