Asia and the Pacific

Situation Report
Feature
Screenshot 2024-08-13 102425

Asia and the Pacific: Weekly Regional Humanitarian Snapshot (23 - 29 July 2024)

INDIA On 30 July, monsoon-triggered landslides struck the Wayanad district in Kerala state, southern India, resulting in significant casualties and widespread damage. Media reports confirm that at least 123 people lost their lives, while 70 others sustained injuries. The disaster has isolated at least four villages—Attamala, Chooralmala, Mundakkai and Noolpuzha—due to the landslides blocking access routes. In response, authorities have initiated relief operations, including the deployment of two Indian Air Force helicopters to assist in rescue and relief efforts. The situation remains critical, with heavy rainfall forecasted to continue across most parts of Kerala for the next 24 hours. On 30 July, a red warning was issued for extremely heavy rain and strong winds, highlighting the ongoing risk and urgency of the response efforts. INDONESIA Between 25 and 26 July, a series of minor earthquakes, magnitudes ranging from 3.6 to 4.1, struck the Kuningan District in West Java, Indonesia. The seismic events caused minor damage to 35 houses and other structures, though fortunately, no casualties were reported. Simultaneously, misinformation about increased volcanic activity at Mt. Ciremai spread on social media, leading to public concern. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) and local authorities promptly addressed and corrected these false reports, providing reassurance to the residents. MYANMAR Since late June, the Mandalay Region Watch has witnessed escalating fighting between the Myanmar Armed Forces and a coalition of various armed groups across the townships of Madaya, Mogoke, Patheingyi, Singu, and Thabeikkyin. Preliminary reports indicate that approximately 55,000 individuals have fled from Madaya, Mogoke and Singu townships to seek safety in Mandalay City and nearby townships in the Sagaing Region. However, many people remain trapped in conflict zones due to road blockages, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Verifying the number of people displaced is challenging due to fluid population movement, insecurity, and limited telecommunication networks. Wherever possible, partners are providing emergency assistance, cash and essential household items to displaced people. PHILIPPINES Since 9 July, the combined effects of the southwest monsoon and Tropical Cyclone Gaemi (local name Carina) have brought heavy to intense rainfall across the Philippines, affecting over 4.8 million people nationwide. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reports 39 fatalities (14 confirmed and 25 under validation), nine injuries, and six people missing. Approximately 108,000 people are currently displaced and housed in 557 evacuation centers. The disaster has caused significant damage, with infrastructure losses estimated at USD 73.4 million (PHP 4.3 billion) and agricultural damages amounting to USD 9.4 million (PHP 552 million), affecting 23,500 farmers and fisherfolk. In response, the Government of the Philippines is leading coordination efforts, supporting families in evacuation centers and initiating early recovery actions. Over 100 cities and municipalities have declared a state of calamity, enabling access to disaster funds. The Department of Social Welfare and Development and other national agencies have distributed approximately USD 5.44 million (PHP 319 million) in aid to the affected areas. Non-governmental organizations and UN agencies are also providing food, non-food items and modular tents to support the displaced populations. CHINA Typhoon Gaemi has brought significant flooding and destruction across nine provinces in China, severely affecting Henan, Hunan, Jilin, Liaoning, and Yunnan provinces. In Henan Province, the typhoon resulted in the deaths of four individuals, with three others reported missing, and affected approximately 87,000 people. In Liaoning Province, more than 14,500 residents were relocated following an orange alert, indicating a high risk of severe weather. In response to the impending heavy rainfall and potential flooding, the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters activated a Level-IV emergency response for the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region on 29 July. To bolster local relief efforts, the Ministry of Emergency Management (MEM) deployed uncrewed aerial vehicles to Hunan Province and allocated disaster relief materials valued at 4.41 million yuan (approximately USD 618,000) to Liaoning Province. These efforts aim to assist in monitoring the situation and providing immediate relief to affected populations.

URL:

Downloaded: