Continuous heavy rainfall, combined with water runoff from the mountains and floodwaters, has resulted in 24 deaths within three days from September 10 to 12 in villages across Karenni, the Shan-Karenni border area, and Pekon Township, according to reports.
Reports indicate that 18 revolutionary comrades have been swept away and died due to the rising floodwaters; however, the revolutionary forces have not yet issued any official statements regarding these casualties.
Additionally, secretary No. 2 of the Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC), U Banyar, said to Kantarawaddy Times that there have also been reports of six civilian deaths.
He said: “Currently, we know that six of these casualties are civilians.”
Since 10 September, flooding has affected in Karenni State. Although Pekon Township and the Karenni State are mountainous areas, residents have experienced significant damage and fatalities due to water runoff from the mountains.
According to a statement from the Kayan Women’s Organization (KyWO) on 12 September, there have been 24 deaths and 2 injuries due to the flooding.
Due to continuous heavy rainfall, more than ten areas in Karenni State and the Shan-Karenni border region have experienced widespread flooding and damage within three days.
According to the IEC, over 300 IDP huts and homes have been submerged and damaged by the flooding, with the majority being IDP huts.
Due to landslides, road clearance operations are now underway in areas where roads have been blocked. However, emergency assistance is still needed for the flood-affected residents, according to rescue teams.
Although the IEC government is committed to supporting the rehabilitation efforts for flood-affected residents, financial constraints currently prevent them from providing comprehensive aid across the entire state, U Banyar added.
He said, “We also need to focus on food supplies. Challenges remain significant in ensuring that all needs, including huts, temporary shelters, clothing, utensils, and other essentials, are fully met for the rehabilitation efforts.”
Flooding is impacting several regions across Myanmar, including Karenni State, Naypyidaw capital, Mandalay Region, Shan State, Kayin (Karen) State, and Bago Region, resulting in extensive damage and loss.
