Typhoon Yagi Claims Over 220 Lives, Leaves 70 Missing in Asia’s Largest Storm of 2024

At least 226 people have lost their lives, and 70 remain missing in the wake of Typhoon Yagi, the most powerful storm to hit Asia in 2024. The typhoon has impacted over 500,000 people, causing massive flooding in 84 townships, including Myanmar's capital, Naypyidaw.

Myanmar's already stretched resources are grappling with the disaster’s aftermath, as tens of thousands seek shelter in relief camps. According to Time Magazine, 2,116 homes have been completely destroyed, while nearly 158,000 dwellings have been submerged. Survivors are taking refuge in 438 camps set up across the country.

Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar's junta leader, made an unusual appeal for international assistance due to the severe devastation. “Government officials need to contact foreign countries to receive rescue and relief aid,” he said.

So far, neighboring India has delivered 10 tonnes of food, clothing, and medicine, but the need for further assistance remains dire. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that the typhoon has affected over 631,000 people. The U.N. agency also reported that more individuals are missing, and various sources suggest that the death toll may rise further.

In neighboring Thailand, heavy rains are expected to persist, worsening flooding in 13 provinces. Thailand's disaster prevention department reported that the floods have already affected 28,000 homes and claimed 45 lives since mid-August.

Typhoon Yagi has also wreaked havoc in Vietnam, where damages are estimated at $1.6 billion. The storm has claimed over 350 lives, making it one of the strongest storms to hit the region in decades. The disaster has sparked concerns about the increasing intensity of tropical cyclones due to global warming.

Despite ongoing rescue efforts in Myanmar, progress is hampered by a lack of funds, continued armed conflicts, and damaged infrastructure. Major General Zaw Min Tun, a spokesman for the Junta, stated that a comprehensive damage assessment is underway to facilitate the necessary relief.

Meanwhile, Myanmar’s meteorology department has issued warnings of continued heavy rains and rising river levels, particularly around the Sittaung River, which has surpassed its danger level by five feet. As more rain is forecasted for the coming days, the situation is expected to worsen, particularly in Rakhine State, a region already suffering from conflict.