Myanmar flooding death toll crosses 220

The number of people in Myanmar who have died in the wake of Typhoon Yagi rose to more than 220, with nearly 80 others still missing, the military government said. 

The storm swept through northern Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar in early September and has killed more than 500 people across the region so far, according to official figures.

It triggered severe floods and mudslides in Myanmar, leaving at least 226 dead as whole villages were wrecked. 

Over half a million people have been affected by the storm, which has triggered widespread flooding across 84 townships, including the capital, Naypyidaw. Tens of thousands have sought refuge in relief camps, as Myanmar’s already strained resources grapple with the aftermath.

The scale of destruction has led Myanmar’s junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, to issue a rare call for international aid.

“Officials from the government need to contact foreign countries to receive rescue and relief aid,” he stated.

Neighboring India has already provided 10 tons of aid, including food, clothing and medicine, but the need for additional assistance remains urgent.