17 July
We experience rain-induced disasters likes floods and landslides every year, especially in July and August. Floods are the most common disaster in our country, capable of striking almost any river and creek nationwide.
Overflowing rivers are behind most floods in Myanmar while torrential and isolated heavy rainfall are the top cause of flash floods and landslides in hilly areas. Meteorologists have warned that changing rainfall patterns with isolated heavy rainfall this rainy season could trigger flash floods and landslides in our country. In fact, water-induced disasters like landslides and floods are not new to Myanmar. They are predictable.
To mitigate the risks, risky settlements must be identified and moved to a safe location. To support it, the local governments must prioritize science-guided policies and actions to mitigate risks. An early tracking and warning system similar to that of the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology that monitors real-time water levels and sends out public warnings must be developed.
People must be alerted to the risks of floods and landslides. People settling in risk areas of flash floods and landslides should take these warnings seriously and make necessary preparations. We would like to urge people to take note of the weather reports issued by the Meteorology and Hydrology Department, and contact the hotline numbers 067-3404666 and 067-3404777. The onus is on local authorities and the people to heed the warnings and ward off avoidable disasters. Meanwhile, the authorities are urged to share information as quickly as possible, and use social media effectively.
Disasters are expected to happen regularly and can impact all people, without discrimination, and the public is still obligated to respond to disasters. It is the people who are paying the heaviest price when it comes to weather events, which are becoming more extreme, unpredictable, and erratic.
The forecast of torrential and isolated rainfall will require the evacuation of people from flooded areas at the onset of rains and the provision of temporary camps for those who have no alternative place of shelter. Whenever we respond to disasters caused by the rain, we should remember that we are already dealing with one pandemic; COVID-19. To fight the infectious diseases while we are facing the dual disasters, greater responsibility for preventive measures lies with regional authorities: they should use the experiences provided by the COVID-19 preventive actions to ensure that people remain vigilant against the current pandemic. As long as the people stay vigilant against the coronavirus— keeping their distance, wearing masks, and washing hands frequently— they should theoretically be guarded against other infectious diseases.
