Tue Sep 17 05:10:04 UTC 2024: ## Myanmar Flood Death Toll Doubles to 226 as UN Warns of Widespread Need for Aid
The death toll from devastating floods in Myanmar following Typhoon Yagi has doubled to 226, with 77 people still missing, according to state media. The UN estimates that as many as 631,000 people have been affected by the flooding across the country, requiring urgent aid in the form of food, water, shelter, and clothing.
The floods, triggered by heavy rainfall from Typhoon Yagi, have destroyed nearly 260,000 hectares of rice paddies and other crops, highlighting the devastating impact on the country’s agriculture. The UN’s World Food Programme has called the floods the worst in Myanmar’s recent history, surpassing the damage caused by severe flooding in 2011 and 2015, as well as the devastating Cyclone Nargis in 2008.
The junta in Myanmar has issued a rare appeal for foreign aid, with India being the only country to respond so far, sending 10 tonnes of supplies. However, past experiences of the junta blocking or hindering foreign aid, including during last year’s Cyclone Mocha, raise concerns about the accessibility of relief efforts.
The floods come at a time when Myanmar is already facing severe challenges due to ongoing conflict between the junta and armed groups. This conflict has displaced millions of people, adding to the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the floods.
Across the region affected by Typhoon Yagi, the death toll stands at over 500, with Vietnam suffering the highest number of casualties at 292. In Thailand, 10 people died, and in Laos, one fatality was reported. The typhoon also caused significant damage to infrastructure and agricultural land across the region, with the economic losses in Vietnam estimated at $1.6 billion.
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