Throughout the first ten days of October this year, Myanmar experienced overcast skies and incessant rainfall due to the slight influence of tropical storm Koinu, lingering over the South China Sea. This tropical disturbance unleashed heavy downpours across the nation, causing widespread flooding in low-lying regions and states.
With the spectre of natural disasters hanging over Myanmar, it is vital for its residents to proactively prepare for these challenges. By staying informed about weather conditions and devising survival plans, they can protect themselves and their communities from the hardships that often accompany such events. The resilient spirit of the people of Myanmar shines through, ensuring that they are better equipped to face the trials that nature may bring their way.
According to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, Tropical Storm “Koinu” is likely to slowly move in a west-southwest direction from currently situated over the South China Sea, with the likelihood of downgrading into a tropical depression. The weather in the Northeast Bay of Bengal is characterized by scattered clouds, while the monsoon remains weak over the Andaman Sea and the broader Bay of Bengal. The monsoon trough stretches across the Deltaic and Gulf of Mottama areas in Myanmar.
The weather forecast indicates that Lower Sagaing, Magway Regions, and Chin State experience isolated rain or thundershowers, Upper Sagaing Region and Rakhine State can see scattered precipitation, and Mandalay Region, Kachin, northern Shan, and Kayah states will face fairly widespread rain. The remaining Regions and States, including Mon State, Nay Pyi Taw, Mandalay, Bago, Yangon, Ayeyawady regions, and Southern Shan and Kayin States, are expected to encounter widespread rainfall, with the potential for heavy downpours regionally.
As these forecasts suggest, the possibility of flooding in several areas looms large. In response, the compassionate people of Myanmar are extending a helping hand to one another, as volunteer youths from auxiliary fire brigades and Red Cross societies collaborate with local authorities to evacuate flood victims to safer locations. Additionally, residents in unaffected regions are generously donating food and essential items to aid the flood victims, while relevant government departments are dispatching relief supplies to the affected areas.
Myanmar residents are also bracing for the impacts of El Niño, making it imperative to prepare for adverse weather conditions. Instead of idly passing their days, they must remain vigilant and take measures to safeguard their well-being. This includes stockpiling basic necessities that can sustain them during times of natural disasters such as floods, heavy rains, and landslides.
With the spectre of natural disasters hanging over Myanmar, it is vital for its residents to proactively prepare for these challenges. By staying informed about weather conditions and devising survival plans, they can protect themselves and their communities from the hardships that often accompany such events. The resilient spirit of the people of Myanmar shines through, ensuring that they are better equipped to face the trials that nature may bring their way.
