A devastating toll has been reported in Myanmar as a result of Typhoon Yagi, with at least 236 confirmed dead and 77 still missing, according to the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has suggested that the actual number of casualties could be even higher, with an estimated 631,000 people impacted by the floods caused by the storm.
The typhoon, one of the most powerful to hit the region this year, affected multiple states and regions in Myanmar, including Naypyidaw, Mandalay, Kayah, Kayin, and Shan States. This comes at a time when the country is already facing a crisis following the February 2021 coup, with ongoing conflict between the military and opposition forces displacing thousands of people.
Despite rejecting international aid in the past, the military in Myanmar has issued a rare call for assistance in response to the devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi. The OCHA has highlighted the urgent need for food, water, medicine, clothing, and shelter, but relief efforts are being hindered by damaged infrastructure and limited communication services.
Furthermore, the humanitarian response in Myanmar is facing severe underfunding, with only 25% of this year’s Myanmar response currently funded. As the country grapples with the aftermath of the typhoon and ongoing political turmoil, international support is crucial to help those affected by the disaster and provide much-needed relief to the people of Myanmar.
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