Aid agencies launch emergency appeals after Myanmar earthquake

Photo by Alexander Schimmeck on Unsplash

Source: CAFOD, Christian Aid

A serious earthquake has hit Myanmar, in an area that has already been affected by conflict. There is still only limited information available on the impact of the quake, but damage to buildings in neighbouring Thailand suggests that nearer the epicentre the effect is likely to have been devastating.

Aid agencies are rushing to the area to assess the situation, and have launched emergency appeals.

Janet Symes, CAFOD's Head of Region Asia & Middle East said: "We are deeply concerned by the news from the earthquake affecting Myanmar and surrounding countries. Although there is limited information available, we know that the epicentre was in an area already impacted by conflict and this morning's disaster will have compounded the humanitarian situation there. CAFOD is working with the Catholic church in Myanmar to provide support where it's most needed."

Christian Aid's Head of Asia, Middle East & Europe, Julie Mehigan, said: "This disaster will has left people isolated, devastated and in need of drinking water, food and shelter. An urgent emergency response, with full humanitarian access, is needed.

"Christian Aid has heard from partners and colleagues on the ground that the Kyaukse Kinta Dam has burst in Mandalay with water levels rising in the lowland areas around.

"We are working closely with our partners and networks to identify the extent of the existing damage and risk to communities there. Mandalay airport is closed to international and domestic travel due to damage to the infrastructure.

"Christian Aid is reaching out to our partners to carry out assessments to identify the most vulnerable people who need our help immediately. However, with a nationwide power outage, communication will continue to be challenging.

"Myanmar is one of the least developed countries in the world. Even before this heartbreaking earthquake, we know conflict and displacement has left countless people in real need. Every prayer and every gift will bring hope to people hit by disaster."

CAFOD has issued the following prayer for the people of Myanmar and other affected areas.

God, our strength and our help
in times of trouble,
be with your people now,
in the aftermath of this earthquake.
Move us to come together
offering shelter for the homeless,
rest to the weary
comfort to the injured and distressed
so that although all is unsteady
and faith may be shaken,
the light of your hope shines through.

We ask this through Christ our Lord, Amen.

To donate to CAFOD and Christian Aid Myanmar earthquake emergency appeals see:

CAFOD: https://cafod.org.uk/give/donate-to-emergencies/myanmar-earthquake-appeal

Christian Aid: www.christianaid.org.uk/appeals/emergencies/myanmar-earthquake-appeal