UNICEF Myanmar Earthquake Flash Update No. 12

Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs

Six weeks after the devastating earthquakes struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, humanitarian needs remain acute across the affected regions, with the situation further deteriorated by early monsoon rains. More than 160 aftershocks have been recorded to date, including significant tremors near Nay Pyi Taw and Wundwin, according to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology. As of 7 May, official figures report 3,791 deaths, 5,106 injuries and 88 people missing. 1 The estimated economic losses exceed USD 1.9 billion.In total, 6.3 million people including nearly 2 million children in the 58 hardest-hit townships are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.

Early rains and soaring temperatures are worsening conditions for displaced families still living in overcrowded makeshift shelters over six weeks after the earthquake. With more than 55,000 homes damaged or destroyed3 , most households lack clean water, food, healthcare, and protection services. Scarce and unaffordable construction materials hinder rebuilding, leaving families exposed to harsh weather and growing risks.
Health services remain severely strained, with over 300 facilities4 damaged or destroyed, compounded by staff shortages and insecurity. Concerns are rising over water-borne diseases, especially in crowded displacement sites.

More than 2,500 schools5 were damaged or destroyed, affecting tens of thousands of learners. Education Cluster partners also report pressure to vacate temporary shelters set up in school buildings ahead of the academic year in June.

Children and women face heightened protection risks including family separation, violence, trafficking, and psychological distress. Many children are still showing signs of shock and trauma, while access to safe spaces, mental health support, and trained personnel remains critically limited. Mine contamination is a major concern in multiple townships, particularly in Kayin, southern Shan, and eastern Bago, posing serious risks to children and aid workers.

As the monsoon season begins, immediate scale-up of emergency shelter, food, water, protection, and health services is needed to support recovery and reduce risk of disease outbreaks for the most affected populations.