THE remnants of a depression that had crossed Thailand regained strength as they moved back into the Andaman Sea and developed into a depression over lower Myanmar. The system passed over Yangon yesterday afternoon, causing heavy rain and flooding on roads, and was forecast to pass directly between Kyaikto and the Gulf of Mottama at night, according to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology.
Heavy rain lasting more than 20 minutes around 3 pm caused flooding on roads and drainage systems across Yangon. The rain temporarily stopped at 3:23 pm, allowing floodwaters on major roads to recede. Although clouds remained over the city, traffic during school dismissal and office hours continued normally.
“The current depression is now over Yangon. Although the rain stopped in the evening, there are still dark clouds, so more rain is expected. Rainfall could be heavy due to the depression. Tonight, the depression is expected to pass directly between Kyaikto and the Gulf of Mottama. The regional government is overseeing preparations to respond promptly to any incidents that may occur due to the heavy rainfall. Yangon is expected to receive between three and four inches of rainfall within 24 hours,” said Dr May Khin Chaw, director of the department.
Under the supervision of the Yangon Region government, fire services, health officials, the Red Cross and social rescue organizations are on standby to respond to flooding and fallen or damaged trees.
The depression is forecast to move through Bago, Pyu, and Nay Pyi Taw towards Sagaing Region on 29 September, gradually weakening along its path. — Thitsa (MNA)/KTZH
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