Situation Overview
Three weeks after catastrophic twin earthquakes hit Myanmar on 28 March, the worst-affected communities are still without safe shelter, clean water and sanitation, stable electricity, healthcare, and essential services. The compounding effects of the disaster on already vulnerable communities—many of whom have been struggling with ongoing conflict, poor infrastructure, and limited services—are severe. Living conditions have sharply deteriorated, with thousands of people still sleeping in the open, exposed to adverse weather conditions and the risk of insect and snake bites. So far, 3,700 deaths have been reported, 4,800 people have been injured, and 129 remain missing, according to the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (AHA Centre). The real toll is likely much higher due to challenges with data collection, verification, underreporting, and processing. The psychological impact is growing, particularly for children and vulnerable groups, who are facing prolonged displacement amid ongoing aftershocks, unseasonal rains, and extreme heat.
Central Myanmar continues to experience daily seismic activity. Since the initial earthquakes, more than 140 aftershocks have been recorded, including two significant ones—5.9 and 5.5 in magnitude—near Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory and Wundwin Town on 29 March and 13 April, according to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology. The United States Geological Survey notes that aftershocks may continue for months after a major earthquake, especially in tectonically active regions like Myanmar.
The earthquakes hit at a critical time—during the country’s driest month and just before monsoon season—and in areas vital to Myanmar’s agricultural economy. The most affected regions produce about one-third of the country's cereal crops, four-fifths of its maize, and are home to nearly two-thirds of Myanmar’s cattle and buffalo population. Widespread damage to farmland and infrastructure has severely disrupted livelihoods and poses a serious threat to food production and income sources ahead of the monsoon season.
