Devastating floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains have claimed lives and displaced thousands in India and Myanmar, as both countries grapple with the impacts of extreme weather conditions during the monsoon season.
Heavy Rains Trigger Floods and Landslides in India and Myanmar
India
Floods and landslides caused by heavy rains have resulted in the deaths of at least 16 people in northeastern India over the last two weeks. The incessant rainfall has displaced over 300,000 people from their submerged homes. The Indian army and air force are actively involved in rescue operations in Assam, one of the worst-hit states. A military helicopter rescued 13 fishermen stranded on an island in the Brahmaputra River.
In Arunachal Pradesh, which borders China, landslides have wiped out several roads. Army troopers have rescued 70 students and teachers from a flooded school in Changlang district. Additionally, heavy flooding has affected Sikkim, Manipur, and Meghalaya, causing road washouts and bridge collapses.
In Assam, animals in Kaziranga National Park are moving to higher ground to escape the flooding, with park rangers monitoring their safety. Since the end of May, more than 80 people have died across six northeastern states due to floods and mudslides.
Myanmar
Heavy rains in northern Myanmar, specifically in Myitkyina, Kachin State, have caused the Ayeyarwady River to rise above its danger level, trapping thousands of people in their homes and cutting off electricity and phone lines since June 30. Floodwaters have slightly receded but persistent rain continues.
Residents report severe difficulties due to fuel shortages and challenges in rescue operations. Downstream in Mandalay, predictions indicate that the Ayeyarwady River could rise significantly in early July. Landslides and floods are recurring problems during Myanmar’s June to October rainy season.
In June, a landslide at a rare earth mine in Kachin State killed five and left seven missing. Myanmar experienced a record heatwave prior to these floods, with temperatures soaring to 48°C.
Both India and Myanmar are facing severe impacts from extreme weather events, highlighting ongoing challenges in the region during the monsoon season.
