Severe flooding affects over 131 000 people in Myanmar, leaves 10 dead

Heavy monsoon rainfall intensified across Myanmar in late July 2025, leading to widespread flooding in multiple regions including Bago, Kayin, Mon, Shan, and Kachin.

The flooding was enhanced by moisture inflow from Cyclone Wipha’s outer bands, causing prolonged precipitation over major river basins.

As of August 6, over 131 000 people had been affected by the floods. According to the European Commission’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO), continued rainfall was expected into August 8, raising risks for central and northern regions.

Confirmed casualties now include at least 10 deaths and 9 people reported missing. Fatalities occurred in Taungoo District (3), Bilin Township (1), and Laiza (6), where flash flooding also destroyed around 100 homes.

More than 30 000 people have been displaced in flood-affected townships across Mon State, Karen State, and Bago Region.

Eight temporary shelters were opened in Bilin alone, while evacuations were carried out in Taungoo, Hpa‑an, Kawkareik, Kya‑In Seik Gyi, and others.

ADAM flood extent maps published by the United Nations on August 4 confirm widespread inundation in eastern Bago and low-lying areas of Mon and Kayin.

River levels in Hpa‑an, Madauk, Taungoo, and Myawaddy remained significantly above danger thresholds through early August.

Infrastructure damage includes the destruction of Do Thaung Bridge near Htantapin and the collapse of flood-control embankments.

In Shan State, evacuations exceeded 2 000 people, and temporary shelters were opened in monasteries and sports halls.

Humanitarian response is ongoing, though complicated by conflict‑affected areas, road collapse, and damaged bridges.

In Laiza, where local control is held by the Kachin Independence Army, aid access is restricted and IDP camps have been inundated.

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

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