UNHCR Flash Update on Earthquake in Myanmar #11

Highlights

Nearly three months after the earthquake struck Myanmar, affected communities are still facing serious difficulties in accessing essential services and supplies, including adequate shelter, food, essential items, and healthcare. Due to ongoing heavy rainfall, more than 1,000 acres of paddy fields and other crops have been flooded in Shan South, and many farmers have lost their entire yield right in the middle of harvest season due to the flooding. Rising water levels around Inle Lake have also affected temporary shelters set up for individuals displaced by the earthquake. As the rain continues in Shan South, water levels in Inle Lake are expected to rise further, likely worsening the flooding situation.

To date, over 118,000 individuals have received assistance from UNHCR and partners. More than 118,000 people have been reached through protection monitoring and assessments, which continue to guide targeted support for the most vulnerable, including those with specific needs.

UNHCR Response

▪ Eight family tents donated by Australia were distributed to earthquake-affected communities in Mandalay, along with a demonstration on how to assemble them. Distribution of Australia-donated items continued in Shan South.

▪ In Mandalay and Sagaing, UNHCR reached 80,673 people (17,647 families) to date, including 17,208 people (4,418 families) who received multi-purpose assistance. UNHCR organized several focus group discussions at temporary accommodation sites to better understand the needs of displaced individuals and to inform the planning of targeted support interventions, including the development of community-based projects that also include host communities.

▪ In Nay Pyi Taw, UNHCR has assisted 8,761 people (1,892 families) to date. UNHCR engaged with communities affected by the earthquake who recently received core relief items. Initial assessments indicate that the most impacted groups are in urgent need of mental health and psychosocial support services (MHPSS).

▪ In the South-East, 29,199 people (6,511 families) have received assistance to date, including 4,900 people (1,149 families) who received multi-purpose assistance. Distribution of core relief items to 355 families (1,614 individuals) in Shan South has been successfully completed.

▪ Together with other humanitarian partners, UNHCR continues to advocate for an end to conflict and for safe, unhindered humanitarian access to deliver life-saving aid to those in need.