Myanmar: Earthquake Response Situation Report No. 7

HIGHLIGHTS

• Just over two months after the devastating earthquakes in Myanmar, affected families continue to face immense challenges in rebuilding their lives.
• Thousands of displaced families in Mandalay and Sagaing remain in overcrowded and insecure shelters, many of which lack adequate protection against extreme weather conditions, leaving communities increasingly vulnerable as the monsoon season approaches.
• The absence of sufficient water, sanitation, and drainage systems in displacement sites and returnee locations has led to outbreaks of acute watery diarrhoea and skin infections, further heightening health risks due to poor hygiene conditions.
• Despite significant funding constraints, the UN and partners continue to provide food, healthcare, shelter, and water, sanitation and hygiene support, sustaining emergency aid while focusing on early recovery efforts.
• Of the US$275 million requested through the Flash Addendum that aims to reach 1.1 million earthquake-affected people, only $63.7 million has been disbursed to date

SITUATION OVERVIEW

More than two months after the destructive earthquakes hit central Myanmar on 28 March, humanitarian conditions remain dire, particularly in displacement sites across Mandalay and Sagaing, the epicentre of the quakes. Thousands of people continue to face severe socio-economic challenges, preventing them from resuming their normal lives. Many displaced families are living in makeshift tents that offer little protection against adverse weather such as extreme heat, strong winds, and heavy rains. While 34 public buildings in Mandalay have been identified as potential shelters that can withstand harsh weather conditions, these sites still lack essential water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities.

The early onset of the monsoon season has further intensified existing vulnerabilities. Poor drainage and inadequate sanitation in overcrowded displacement sites have led to cases of acute watery diarrhoea (AWD) and skin infections, raising concerns about potential cholera, malaria, and dengue outbreaks. In returnee communities, access to clean water remains a major concern, with many relying on damaged or non-functional infrastructure. Vulnerable groups – including women, children, older persons, people with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses – face heightened risks due to limited mobility and unsafe conditions. Despite critical humanitarian needs, 74 per cent of the hardest-hit townships have not yet received shelter assistance due to access constraints, limited operational presence, and funding shortages. Urgent action is required to enhance shelter conditions, restore WASH services, and address public health risks to prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian situation.