Children face heightened risks amid devastating floods in Myanmar

UNICEF is deeply concerned for the safety and well-being of thousands of children and families affected by the severe flooding across Myanmar. Heavy rainfalls marking the peak of the monsoon season, exacerbated by Typhoon Yagi, have caused widespread devastation, particularly in Bago, Kayah, Kayin, Magway, Mandalay, Mon, Naypyitaw, Rakhine and Shan areas.

The floods have resulted in casualties, displaced families, damaged homes, and have destroyed livelihoods and critical infrastructure, including health facilities, schools, and major highways and bridges.

As of today, over 130 deaths and about 320,000 displacements have been reported, though the situation is still evolving. Verifying numbers remains challenging, as many affected areas are still hard to reach due to damaged roads and widespread disruptions to telecommunications and electricity.

As is too often the case in natural disasters, children are among the worst affected. Their safety, well-being, and access to basic services are at grave risk. Affected areas include camps for displaced people, including children, who were already struggling with limited services due to ongoing conflict.

UNICEF teams are on the ground, working closely with stakeholders to assess the situation and mobilize immediate relief. The provision of clean water, sanitation, and healthcare is critical to averting water-borne disease outbreaks, while ensuring psycho-social support and protection services for children during this challenging time.

Ongoing conflict in Myanmar has displaced more than 3.3 million people, nearly 40 per cent of whom are children bearing the heaviest brunt.