Cyclone Mocha, described as the strongest in more than a decade, hit the coast of Myanmar and Bangladesh on the morning of Sunday, May 14. The resultant flooding has forced hundreds of thousands of individuals to evacuate their homes in both Myanmar and Bangladesh.

Almost 5.4 million people are estimated to have been in the path of the cyclone, enduring winds in excess of 90 kmph across Rakhine and the Northwest. Of these, nearly 3.2million are most vulnerable to the cyclone impact based on analysis of shelter quality, food insecurity and coping capacity.

As per initial reports immediate needs for relief items, shelter, food, health, and WASH support in the affected areas. Concern about waterborne disease outbreaks is high, and close monitoring will be critical. Explosive ordnance risk education and hygiene awareness will also be required, along with psychological support.

The State Administration Council (SAC) has declared 17 townships as severely affected areas and is preparing for a coordinated response. However, commercial flights are not currently allowed to reach Sittwe, and UNOCHA together with WFP and other organizations are organizing to get approval from SAC to reach affected population.

ACT Alliance members in Myanmar, Christian Aid, Finn Church Aid and Lutheran World Federation are currently present on the ground and conducting assessments.  

ACT Myanmar Forum -Alert Cyclone Mocha