Residents have begun evacuating to Yekyi town as floodwaters continue to spread following severe flooding in Laymyethna Township, where a breached embankment has inundated surrounding areas.

A temporary flood relief shelter has been opened at the indoor sports hall in Yekyi, where displaced residents are being accommodated.

A volunteer from the Karuna Social Assistance Association said flood victims had already arrived in Yekyi after floodwaters reached Degone village.

“Flood evacuees have started arriving in Yekyi. We have learned that the floodwaters have reached Dae Kone village. Those without relatives to stay with are taking shelter at the indoor sports hall. The evacuees from Degone travelled to Yekyi Railway Station on a small rail maintenance trolley, and we have been transporting them from the station to the shelter. Around 200 people are now staying there, and more are expected to arrive,” the volunteer said.

The volunteer added that floodwaters are also moving towards Ngathaingchaung, prompting residents there to remain on alert.

The evacuations followed widespread flooding in Laymyethna Township after an embankment breach, with rising waters continuing to flow into neighbouring Yekyi Township.