As rescue operations continue in Myanmar following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck on March 28, residents and rescue teams are now facing another major challenge: heavy rains and thunderstorms.
The quake, which originated near Mandalay—Myanmar’s second-largest city—has left widespread destruction across six states and regions, including the capital Naypyitaw. According to Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, spokesperson for the military government, 3,564 people have been confirmed dead, with 5,012 injured and 210 still missing.
Efforts to assess the full extent of the devastation have been hindered by significant infrastructure damage. Power outages, loss of mobile and telephone networks, and destruction of roads and bridges have slowed down search and rescue operations. The rainy weather has only made things worse.
Myanmar’s state-run broadcaster MRTV warned on Sunday evening that scattered showers and thunderstorms were expected across the country throughout the week. Citizens have been cautioned to brace for possible strong winds, lightning, hailstorms, and landslides. Temperatures are also projected to soar, potentially reaching 38°C (100°F) by midweek.
“Public is advised to be aware of the possibility of untimely rain accompanied by strong winds, lightning, hail, and landslides,” MRTV announced.
Rescue teams have been working tirelessly in the face of adversity. A member of the Myanmar Rescue Federation in Mandalay told The Associated Press that machines and electrical equipment used in search efforts had to be temporarily shut down due to the rain. Despite this, operations continue with determination, though at a slower pace.
Another rescuer from Mandalay reported that the strong winds and rain had caused further structural collapses, complicating the already dire shelter situation for displaced residents forced to sleep outdoors.
Tragically, at least 80 bodies were reportedly recovered from the wreckage of the Great Wall Hotel in Mandalay on Sunday, according to The Irrawaddy, a Myanmar news outlet operating in exile. This report has not been independently confirmed. Meanwhile, the Myanmar Fire Services Department confirmed the recovery of five more bodies from collapsed buildings in Mandalay.
The military government revealed that the earthquake has damaged over 5,223 buildings, including 1,824 schools, 2,752 monastic residences, 4,817 religious structures such as pagodas and temples, 167 hospitals and clinics, 169 bridges, 198 dams, and 184 segments of the national highway.
The humanitarian crisis unfolds amid Myanmar’s ongoing political turmoil. The country has been under military rule since a coup in February 2021, and the government remains locked in conflict with pro-democracy groups and ethnic minority rebels. Critics say the military’s tight control has further restricted transparency and relief coordination.
As rain clouds gather once more, survivors and responders alike face a long and challenging road ahead.
Sources By Agencies
