Myanmar
Record Rainfall in Shan State Triggers Flooding and Landslides
Taunggyi Township experiences its highest rainfall in over five decades, leading to significant flooding and landslides across southern Shan State.
The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) reported that Taunggyi Township, the capital of Shan State, experienced its highest rainfall in 52 years on November 11, with 4.05 inches (103 mm) falling in just one day. This extreme weather event has led to significant flooding and landslides across southern Shan State, impacting several towns including Aungban, Kalaw, Hopong, Nyaungshwe, Laihka, and Kholam, which are situated between 13 and 106 miles (20-170 km) from Taunggyi.
Residents reported that debris from landslides blocked a six-mile (9.7 km) road connecting central Taunggyi to Aythaya Vineyard on November 10. Flooding was also reported in Kangyi and Pyidawtha wards on November 9. In Kalaw Township, two wards faced flooding, and landslides obstructed access to the hill resort town on November 10. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported in these areas.
“Debris from a rain-triggered landslide blocked the six-mile road connecting central Taunggyi to Aythaya Vineyard.”Anonymous resident, Taunggyi
According to forecasts from the DMH, thunderstorms and additional rainfall are expected in Naypyidaw, Mandalay, Magway, and Sagaing regions, along with Chin, Arakan, Karenni, and Shan states from November 11 to 12. This follows a pattern of severe weather in the region, with at least four instances of flooding and landslides occurring in southern Shan State this year alone.
“Thunderstorms and additional rainfall are expected in Naypyidaw, Mandalay, Magway, and Sagaing regions.”Department of Meteorology and Hydrology
Earlier this year, on September 8, a landslide in Monghsu Township, located approximately 180 miles (300 km) northeast of Taunggyi, resulted in the tragic loss of four family members. Additionally, in March, floodwaters destroyed over 3,000 acres of farmland in the Pong Inn region, which lies at the junction of Taunggyi, Hopong, and Hsihseng townships, as reported by SHAN News.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of this unprecedented rainfall, experts have noted that the low-pressure system over the Andaman Sea has contributed to the heavy rains. This system is expected to persist, leading to further rainfall in the coming days, which could exacerbate the already challenging conditions for local communities.