Myanmar Struggles to Recover as Aftershock Hits During Thingyan Festival

A 5.5-magnitude aftershock deepens the humanitarian crisis caused by the March 28 earthquake, subduing traditional celebrations and leaving millions in need of aid.

• A 5.5-magnitude aftershock struck central Myanmar on April 13, adding to the devastation caused by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake on March 28 that killed over 3,600 people.
• The Thingyan water festival, traditionally a time of joy, is being observed quietly this year due to a nationwide grieving period mandated by the military government.
• Over 5,200 buildings have been destroyed, and more than two million people are in need of urgent humanitarian assistance, according to the UN.
• Hundreds remain displaced, living in makeshift tent encampments with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and basic necessities.
• Recovery efforts are hindered by political instability following the 2021 military coup and reduced international aid, with the World Food Programme forced to cut assistance to one million people this month.

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The Japan Times