THE Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has advised that, during appropriate times and conditions, various types of natural disasters such as thunderstorms, hailstorms, squalls, lightning strikes, heavy rain, strong winds, and tornadoes may occur in some parts of Myanmar. Therefore, the department has recommended that people take precautionary measures in advance.
Due to the strength of the monsoon winds blowing from the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, and the interaction with the strong wind from the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, there is likely to be intense weather activity. These conditions may lead to increased rainfall and thunderstorm activity from the evening of 29 April to 4 May in the following regions: Yangon, Mandalay, Bago, Magway, Sagaing, Ayeyawady and Taninthayi regions, Chin, Kayah, Kayin, Kachin, Mon, Rakhine and Shan states. In some areas, depending on local conditions and terrain, heavy rains may occur suddenly at any time.
Furthermore, in this period when pre-monsoon storms are occurring, the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has issued a special advisory urging people to be especially cautious regarding possible strong winds and thunderstorms that may develop. The department has also advised the public and relevant authorities to stay alert in advance, particularly regarding domestic flights and travel plans that could be affected by weather conditions.
Due to strong winds, infections caused by viruses and bacteria can occur, leading to illnesses such as diarrhoea and vomiting. In addition, diseases like typhoid fever, cholera, dysentery, hepatitis A, influenza, and other similar diseases may also arise among the people. These diseases often occur due to poor personal hygiene practices. If such infections are not treated in time, they can cause a sudden rise in body temperature and weaken the immune system, making it easier for illnesses to enter the body.
However, regarding natural disaster risks and related information, it is important for the public to be aware and stay alert in a timely manner. People need to take care of daily climatic conditions and listen to announcements about changes in the weather forecast. They have to assess daily weather reports whenever untimely weather forecasts are released by authorities as well as relevant departments. If so, they can avoid potential dangers such as floods, landslides, or other hazards. Beyond such a period, they need to consider how to respond to further challenges. So, authorities should take proactive measures to safeguard people and ensure proper disaster response procedures are in place to protect lives and property.
