Asia and the Pacific: Weekly Regional Humanitarian Snapshot (9 - 15 July 2024)

BANGLADESH

Flooding caused by recent monsoon rains and swollen rivers has engulfed multiple northern districts of Bangladesh, severely impacting low-lying areas, chars and riverine regions submerged since July 12. The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) estimates that 5.13 million people face potential inundation in Jamuna River basin districts, including 1.5 million children aged 5-19 years and over 80,000 persons with disabilities. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) issued a heavy rainfall warning on 11 July, effective for 48 hours, covering these districts and neighboring Indian states. The Brahmaputra-Jamuna River has breached danger levels in Bogura, Gaibandha, Jamalpur and Kurigram, exacerbating the situation. The government's response includes TK 9,500,000 in cash relief, 3,700 tons of rice, and 13,500 food packs distributed across severely affected areas to provide urgent assistance to affected populations amidst this ongoing crisis.

MYANMAR

Amid the ongoing conflict in many parts of the country, Myanmar continues to grapple with flooding during the monsoon season. Since the end of June, low-lying areas along various rivers, especially Ayeyarwady and Chindwin, have been affected. In the northwest, more than 15 townships in Magway, Mandalay and Sagaing have been affected, with an estimated 118,000 people being temporarily evacuated to safer places since the beginning of July. Sagaing has been the hardest hit, with at least 11 townships flooded, followed by Mandalay, which had four townships affected. In Kachin, approximately 37,000 people in several townships were also temporarily evacuated due to the flash flooding on 30 June. Most of the flood-affected population in Myitkyina and Waingmaw townships have returned home as water levels have receded. Immediate lifesaving assistance was provided by humanitarian partners and local authorities in Kachin and in the northwest.

PHILIPPINES

Heavy rains from the Intertropical Convergence Zone triggered flooding and landslides within the Bangsamoro Region, Mindanao, affecting over 600,000 people as of 16 July. In Matanog town, Maguindanao Del Norte, a severe flash flood occurred, leading to displacement, casualties, and extensive damage to property and infrastructure - municipal authorities reported it as the most severe flash flood in terms of water volume, resulting in 23 injuries, 7 fatalities and 2 people missing. The flood destroyed 285 houses and damaged 510 houses, including three schools, one of which was completely damaged. Regional and provincial authorities, supported by Bangsamoro READi, are leading response efforts, focusing on search and rescue operations and providing food, emergency shelter and non-food items. The Ministry of Social Services and Development conducted assessments and provided initial assistance. Agencies from the Mindanao Humanitarian Team deployed teams for the rapid needs assessment and IDP protection. OCHA is monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with Bangsamoro READi for additional support.

INDONESIA

Between 10 and13 July, heavy rainfall in conjunction with the basin-like geographic characteristics of Gorontalo City resulted in widespread flooding and landslides. Approximately 4,686 households were affected, leading to the temporary displacement of 7,486 people seeking refuge in safer areas. One fatality was reported due to a landslide in Kota Barat Sub-district. The Gorontalo City Government has declared a 14 -day emergency response status for floods and landslides, effective from 11 to 24 July. Immediate response actions included the evacuation of residents, establishing displacement centres and public kitchens, restoring road access, and clearing debris deposited by floodwaters.