Hlaingbwe, Kayin State — Heavy rains and runoff from the surrounding mountains have caused the Hlaingbwe Creek to overflow, triggering flooding in Hlaingbwe town and forcing local residents to evacuate to safer areas, according to residents.

Flooding began in parts of the town on the morning of August 21, prompting the evacuation of some residents to nearby relief centers, a local resident said.

“It has been raining day and night for two consecutive days. The creek level has risen, and water from the mountains has also flowed down into the town. The current is strong,” the resident said.

The Hlaingbwe Township Fire Station’s search and rescue team, working in coordination with relevant organizations, has been assisting households in low-lying areas, particularly Wards Kha and Gha, with evacuations, according to the township fire department.

Hlaingbwe is located along Hlaingbwe Creek, also known as the Hlaingbwe River, a tributary of the Gyaing River. The creek originates in the Dawna Range and flows as the Hlaingbwe River before joining the Haungtharaw River near Kyainseikgyi, eventually forming part of the Gyaing River system.

Meanwhile, flooding has also been reported in parts of Kawkareik Township and Kyainseikgyi Township in Kayin State due to heavy rainfall and runoff from the mountains, according to local residents.