Heavy rain devastates houses and bridges in northern Kachin State, woman reported missing

Heavy rain devastates houses and bridges in northern Kachin State, woman reported missing
Published 30 May 2024
EMG

Homes and bridges were destroyed, and people went missing due to heavy rain over two consecutive days in Chiphwe in northern Kachin State on May 28 and 29, according to sources.

"Phi Maw Bridge was swept away by the tide, and a landslide occurred at the traditional cultural ground. Lance Bridge and five residential houses were also carried away. Houses and bridges in Myawpar were swept away along with a 50-year-old woman. The flooding began at 2:00 am. I’ve just heard the news, but it’s not easy to get there,” said a local from Chiphwe. 

Currently, villagers are taking shelter in safe areas, and those whose homes were lost in the tide are in need of assistance. Despite this, the rain continues to fall, reports say.

Additionally, the bridge in Nozhunbor village has been destroyed, and many roads have collapsed due to mountain torrents.

People affected by the landslides are currently in Ngowt Chan Kha and surrounding tributary areas, according to a resident of Chiphwe.

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has warned that due to the speed of Storm Remal, there will be heavy rain in the upper areas of Kachin State. Farmers and locals living in low-lying areas near the Ayeyawady River and Chindwin River have been advised to remain alert.