Asia’s strongest storm in 2024 hits Myanmar, leaves over 220 dead, dozens missing

Typhoon Yagi, the strongest storm to hit Asia in 2024, has devastated Myanmar, leaving at least 226 people dead and 70 missing.

Over half a million people have been affected by the storm, which has triggered widespread flooding across 84 townships, including the capital, Naypyidaw. Tens of thousands have sought refuge in relief camps, as Myanmar’s already strained resources grapple with the aftermath.

According to reports from Time Magazine, over 158,000 homes were submerged in floodwaters, while 2,116 homes were destroyed. Relief efforts are underway in 438 camps nationwide, with survivors seeking shelter as the disaster continues to unfold.

The scale of destruction has led Myanmar’s junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, to issue a rare call for international aid.

“Officials from the government need to contact foreign countries to receive rescue and relief aid,” he stated.

Neighboring India has already provided 10 tons of aid, including food, clothing and medicine, but the need for additional assistance remains urgent.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimated that 631,000 people have been impacted by the typhoon.

“Multiple sources indicate that hundreds of people have died, with many more missing,” the U.N. agency said, warning that the death toll is expected to rise.

In neighboring Thailand, heavy rains are expected to continue, exacerbating flood conditions in 13 provinces. The floods have claimed at least 45 lives and affected 28,000 households since mid-August, according to Thailand’s disaster prevention department.

Typhoon Yagi also wreaked havoc in Vietnam, where more than 350 people have been killed, and damages are estimated at $1.6 billion.

Vietnam experienced its most powerful storm in decades, adding to growing concerns over the intensification of tropical cyclones due to global warming.

Rescue operations in Myanmar are ongoing but hampered by damaged infrastructure, ongoing armed conflicts, and limited funds. Junta spokesman Major General Zaw Min Tun announced that a comprehensive damage assessment is in progress to provide necessary support.

Meanwhile, Myanmar’s meteorology department has warned of continued heavy rains and rising river levels, particularly near the Sittaung River, which has exceeded its danger level by five feet.

Three provinces, including war-torn Rakhine State, are expected to experience further rainfall in the coming days, compounding the country’s struggles.