Myanmar's Catastrophic Floods: Death Toll Rises Amid Relief Efforts

Typhoon Yagi has caused catastrophic flooding and landslides in Myanmar, resulting in at least 74 deaths and displacing nearly 240,000 people. The death toll is feared to rise as over 100 individuals are reported missing. Myanmar's military government is seeking international aid to manage the crisis.

Typhoon Yagi has wreaked havoc in Myanmar, leading to severe flooding and landslides. The death toll now stands at at least 74, with 89 people missing, as per state television reports on Saturday.

Compiling information has been challenging, raising fears the number of casualties could be higher. The new official death toll, announced by the country's military government, more than doubled the 33 casualties reported on Friday. Prior to hitting Myanmar, Typhoon Yagi caused significant damage in Vietnam, northern Thailand, and Laos, claiming over 260 lives.

In a bid for assistance, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, head of the ruling military council, has requested relief aid from foreign countries. The floods have displaced nearly 240,000 people, adding to the 3.4 million who were already displaced due to prior conflicts. The affected areas include Mandalay, Bago, eastern Shan state, and the capital, Naypyitaw. Efforts to assess damage and provide aid are complicated by the ongoing civil war in Myanmar.

(With inputs from agencies.)