Before the earthquake struck Myanmar on the 28th of March, the country was already in crisis, with a third of the population, 19.9 million people, in urgent need of humanitarian support. Now millions more are in need.
At least 120,000 buildings have been destroyed, leaving families forced to live outside in makeshift camps on farmland or by the side of the road. Intense rains have already started, and now with the monsoon season just a few weeks away, there is a real threat of further devastation.
The needs are huge, but despite the many challenges delivering aid within this context, DEC charities and their local partners have already been able to reach some of the most vulnerable with lifesaving aid.
During the first 6 months of the DEC funded response, they will continue to prioritise urgent support and meeting people’s most essential needs.
Temporary Shelter
As monsoon season approaches, 5.2 million people in the worst earthquake affected areas are in need of shelter assistance. High temperatures and heavy rain have already impacted people living in makeshift camps outside, worsening the conditions in overcrowded areas. DEC charities are working with their local partners to provide shelter kits including items such as tarpaulins, ropes, tools and bamboo building materials.