
The town of Myawaddy in Karen State is experiencing its second major flooding event, with the Thaungyin River now exceeding the danger level by approximately 12 feet, according to reports from the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology. The river’s water levels began rising rapidly on July 29, and by July 30, most areas of the town were submerged under floodwater. The flooding has forced residents in low-lying areas to evacuate to safer locations since the evening of July 29, marking the second time this month that citizens have had to relocate due to flooding.
The flooding has reached the No. 1 Friendship Bridge and extended into the town center, with lower-lying areas completely submerged. Local residents report that this second wave of flooding is more severe than the first occurrence, with notably stronger water currents. The initial flooding event occurred on July 23-24, when the Thaungyin River exceeded the danger level by approximately 9.5 feet. However, the current situation has become more critical, with water levels rising 12 feet above the danger mark, and forecasts suggesting an additional increase of 1.5 feet within the next 24 hours.
According to rescue workers and local volunteers, this flooding event differs significantly from previous years’ incidents, characterized by unusually rapid water level fluctuations and stronger currents. The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology’s morning report at 7:30 AM indicates that the situation remains critical, with water levels continuing to pose a serious threat to the town and its residents. The rapid nature of both the water’s rise and recession has created additional challenges for evacuation efforts and emergency response teams working in the affected areas.