The Mon State Humanitarian Relief Organization reports that more than 30 people have died due to heatstroke across various townships in Mon State this summer.
From March to the third week of May this year, Thaton Township reported the highest number of deaths, with over 20 fatalities. Other townships affected include Bilin with 3 deaths, Kyaikmaraw with 1 death, Mawlamyine with 3 deaths, and Ye with 3 deaths, according to a member of Bilin’s social rescue team.
“There have been deaths in Bilin due to cerebrovascular accidents, particularly in March and April. Many people have been hospitalized. In total, more than 30 people across all townships have lost their lives,” the team member stated.
Individuals with coronary heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable, but young and middle-aged people are also being affected by the extreme temperatures.
This year, the heat has been more intense, and frequent power outages have exacerbated the situation. On May 14th and 15th, several cases of heatstroke were reported in Ye Township, according to a resident of Ye.
“Gasoline is expensive, electricity has been cut off, and the temperatures are high. A man and a woman lost consciousness and died at the hospital,” said a member of Lumu Rescue.
Additionally, a significant number of people have been treated at hospitals for symptoms related to heatstroke, including fainting, sweating, nausea, and fatigue.
Health officials are urging residents to avoid outdoor activities between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., when temperatures are highest, and to stay in well-ventilated and cool environments.
Last April, more than 1,400 people died nationwide due to high temperatures, with Mandalay Region reporting the highest number of fatalities, according to data from Radio Free Asia (RFA).