Flooding emergency in Myitkyina prompts rapid rescue efforts, evacuations

Due to heavy rains in the upper reaches of the Maykha and Malikha rivers in northern Myanmar, the water level of the Ayeyawady River began rising on the morning of 30 June. By 1 July, the water level in Myitkyina had exceeded 1,368 centimetres. In response, Tatmadaw personnel, police, fire brigades, and local social aid organisations are conducting rapid search and rescue operations.

As a result of the rising water levels, 30 flood evacuation centres have been established in monasteries and primary schools in Myitkyina and Arlam Village. At 10 am on 1 July, members of the Regional Disaster Management Committee organized vehicles, speedboats, and small boats to carry out search and rescue operations. The public was informed about the potential for further rescue operations and the possibility of the river rising again. Discussions were held regarding the quick relocation of residents in low-lying areas.

Subsequently, the chief minister, along with senior military officers, regional ministers, and departmental officials, coordinated with search and rescue teams to ensure the prompt evacuation of people from flooded areas. They also provided lunch boxes to residents in the Myothit Ward of Myitkyina, relocating them to Aungzay Yanaung Pagoda.

The chief minister and officials visited the 112 flood-evacuated households sheltered in the precinct of Aungzay Yanaung Pagoda to inspect their cooking and living conditions. They coordinated with officials to provide healthcare and other necessary support.

Additionally, the Chief Minister and military officers checked the conditions and needs at the flood evacuation camp in Myaymyint Monastery, discussing the situation with the monastery’s abbot.

On the morning of 1 July, the chief minister and his team also participated in cleaning activities at Zeelon Basic Education High School with members of the development committee, employees, and the Kachin State Clean & Green Team.

The Ayeyawady River’s water level started to rise on 30 June. By 6:30 am on 1 July, the water level rose to 1,368 cm by 3:30 pm exceeding danger level 1,200 cm. With the water level rising approximately eight centimetres (three inches) per hour, the Kachin State government is conducting search and rescue operations in low-lying areas and other vulnerable locations. Historical records show that Myitkyina experienced similar floods in 1979 when the highest water level reached 1,313 cm above the critical level, as well as in 1997 and 2014.