July 2, 2024

Residents of low-lying areas in Banmaw, Kachin State, are being forced to evacuate due to rising water levels from the Irrawaddy River. As of this morning, July 2, evacuation efforts are underway with the assistance of one rescue vehicle, one fire engine, and eight rescue boats from the Banmaw District Fire Station, along with firefighters helping to relocate affected residents.

The flooding began on June 30, when the Irrawaddy River in Myitkyina, Kachin State, rose above the critical level of 1,200 centimeters, prompting many residents to seek higher ground.

Rescue teams have reported that the water levels in Myitkyina remain above the danger mark as of July 2, further compounding the flood situation.

Residents in low-lying areas downstream from the Irrawaddy River, including Banmaw, Katha, Thibaw, Sagaing, and Mandalay, have been advised by the Kachin State Meteorology Department under the military administration to preemptively evacuate to safer locations.