Heavy rain is exacerbating the already dire situation in Myanmar, where relief efforts are struggling to reach survivors of a devastating earthquake that has claimed nearly 3,500 lives, according to state media.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which struck on March 28, caused widespread destruction, levelling buildings, disrupting power supplies, and damaging crucial infrastructure like bridges and roads.
The cities of Sagaing, near the epicentre, and Mandalay, home to over 1.7 million people, have suffered particularly severe damage.
Official figures from the military junta-led nation now report 3,471 fatalities and 4,671 injuries, with 214 people still missing. Many residents, whose homes were destroyed or deemed unsafe, are forced to live in makeshift outdoor shelters.
The arrival of wind and rain on Saturday evening compounded their misery, leaving them to choose between potentially dangerous buildings and the harsh elements.
“People are trying to rebuild their lives now,” said UN aid chief Tom Fletcher, highlighting the urgent need for food, water, and restored power. He described the damage as “epic,” with many people still lacking shelter.
Aid experts are concerned that the combination of rainy conditions and intense heat will increase the risk of disease outbreaks in the temporary camps.
The ongoing civil war in Myanmar, which began after the 2021 military coup, is further complicating relief efforts.
Damaged infrastructure and unreliable communication networks are hindering the delivery of aid. Even before the earthquake, 3.5 million people were displaced by the conflict, according to the UN.
Despite a supposed ceasefire announced by the military government, the UN reports that the junta has continued attacks against rebel groups.
Tom Fletcher held discussions with Thai and Malaysian foreign ministers to coordinate international aid efforts.
Adding to the instability, aftershocks continue to rock the region, with a 4.7-magnitude quake occurring near Mandalay on Friday night.
