8 July 2026 – Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) under State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) military issued an emergency weather warning, highlighting that strengthening southwest monsoon conditions over the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal are expected to bring widespread thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across 11 States and Regions between 9 July and 16 July.
The affected areas are Chin State, Kachin State, Karen State, Mon State, Rakhine State, eastern Shan State, Upper Sagaing Region, Yangon Region, Bago Region, Ayeyarwady Region, and Tanintharyi Region.
According to the forecast, very heavy rainfall is expected in Chin State and Upper Sagaing Region, while the remaining affected States and Regions are also likely to experience heavy rain, with localized areas receiving particularly intense downpours.
The DMH warned that the heavy rainfall may be accompanied by strong winds, flash floods, and landslides. Residents living in mountainous and hillside areas, particularly in Chin State and Upper Sagaing Region, are urged to remain alert to the risk of landslides, while those living near small rivers and streams should prepare for possible flash flooding.
Along Myanmar’s coastline and offshore waters, occasional squalls are expected, with winds reaching 30-35 mph (48-56 km/h) and wave heights of approximately 8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters). The department advised domestic airlines, as well as coastal and offshore fishing vessels and commercial ships, to exercise caution during the forecast period.
Heavy rainfall has already caused disruptions in parts of Chin State. In the Zotung area, an additional landslide at Mile 46 on the Gangaw-Aika Road has blocked the road. The Zotung Federal Council said continuous rainfall has made clearance operations difficult, with work expected to begin only from 8 July.
In Thantlang township, roads connecting the township with Hakha and Mizoram State, India, have also been damaged by persistent rainfall, making the transportation of goods increasingly difficult.
The DMH noted that 1 July to 31 August is Myanmar’s designated mid-monsoon season. During this period, four low-pressure systems are expected to develop over the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, with two potentially strengthening into tropical depressions, increasing the likelihood of continued adverse weather. – Reporting by Daniel
