Situation Overview
Five weeks after the devastating earthquakes in central Myanmar, humanitarian needs remain severe, with some affected communities still in need of shelter, healthcare, clean water, and other critical support. The monsoon season has started early, with daily rains this week, adding to the hardship of those whose homes were damaged or destroyed by the earthquakes. Without safe places to return to, many people are living in tents and makeshift shelters, exposed to harsh weather and increased protection risks. Displaced people sheltering in schools are now under pressure to relocate, as the new academic cycle is set to begin in early June. They are in urgent need of safe alternative accommodation and shelter materials. While emergency assistance is still needed, support for early recovery and livelihoods is becoming more urgent. People are facing serious challenges as construction materials like cement, iron, and bricks are in short supply in the markets, and prices are rising.
The recent Multisector Initial Rapid Assessment (MIRA) covered 44 of the 58 earthquake-affected townships. It identified priority needs as cash, food, construction materials, and emergency shelter support. Cash assistance was noted as the preferred type of support across all affected regions. Shelter and construction materials were especially critical in severely damaged areas like Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, and Sagaing. Food insecurity remains a serious concern, particularly for displaced people in Bago, Kayin, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw. Widespread trauma and psychological distress were identified as major health concerns across all regions, also affecting access to education. Access to basic services and infrastructure—such as water, sanitation, and electricity—remains limited, especially in conflict-affected areas with existing vulnerabilities. More than 75 percent of the assessed areas have received some form of assistance since the earthquakes.
