Unprecedented heavy rainfall in southern Myanmar has led to severe flooding, resulting in the displacement of thousands of residents from their homes. Bago Township in the Bago Region has been particularly hard-hit by the deluge, which began on October 6, 2023, with record-breaking rainfall reported.

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology in Myanmar revealed that Bago Township experienced record rainfall levels during this period. On October 8, 2023, a remarkable 200 mm of rain fell in just 24 hours, surpassing the previous high for the area, which stood at 146 mm, recorded in October 2018. The relentless downpour swiftly caused the Bago River, which flows through the town, to surge above the danger mark. As of October 9, 2023, the river's water level stood at 10.04 meters, considerably exceeding the danger threshold of around 8.80 meters.

Disaster authorities in Myanmar responded swiftly to the crisis. Approximately 12,000 people were evacuated to temporary camps, with around 2,800 homes sustaining damage due to the flooding.

The devastating effects of the flood extended to other communities in southern Myanmar. In Kyaikhto Township of Mon State, 55 individuals from 12 households were evacuated to temporary accommodations. Meanwhile, the town of Bilin in Mon State experienced its own record-breaking rainfall for the month of October, with 180 mm of rain falling on October 7, surpassing the previous record of 154 mm set in October 2007.

Furthermore, flooding also impacted areas within the Yangon Region. In Taikkyi Township, roughly 100 people were displaced, and 27 homes were damaged. Hlegu saw the evacuation of 13 families, and Hmawbi reported that around 8 families had been displaced by the floodwaters.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) reported that a total of 14,934 individuals have been evacuated to 63 emergency evacuation centers spread across the affected areas of Bago, Mon, and Yangon. According to IFRC data, five people have lost their lives, and 35 have been injured. It's important to note that these figures are yet to be confirmed by additional sources.

The situation remains critical as authorities and humanitarian organizations work tirelessly to address the pressing needs of those affected by the devastating floods.