Heat-wave conditions are prevailing in Burma with temperatures soaring up to 44 degree Celsius in Dawphu village, Karenni State.

Local villagers said cattle and buffalos had died due to the extreme weather conditions and water shortage. A Dawphu villager said. "In recent weeks, a big buffalo died along with many newborn calves."

Dawpetdu, Dawpetphu and Dawsoku from Dawphu village rely the year round on a small brook, three miles from their village for their and their livestock’s water requirements.

Villagers said the excessive heat has dried up water holes in many villages. Streams have dried up creating severe water shortage. Villagers say there is not enough water for drinking and washing and if they need water for themselves or their cattle and buffalo they have to walk three miles to get it.

"There is only one lake that we can rely on to get water. Our cattle and buffaloes don't have enough and are at risk of dying."

The villagers said it is not only their livestock that they are worried about. "Many children are suffering from dehydration and heatstroke," they said.