Low pressure system and monsoon winds could cause heavy rains in some regions including northern Rakhine

Some regions in Myanmar could experience heavy rains and are advised to be cautious of floods and landslides due to the strengthening of the monsoon low pressure system and the impact of the southwest monsoon, according to meteorology observer U Win Naing. He shared the meteorological situation that could affect Myanmar and the monsoon low pressure system forming in the northern Bay of Bengal through his social media network at 5 PM today. It is explained that with the monsoon low pressure system in the northern Bay of Bengal becoming stronger, its intense pull could lead to a dangerous situation where heavy rains continue for several days along the western coast of Myanmar, in the northern regions, and along the southern monsoon fronts. Due to this situation, there is a sign of heavy rains continuing for several days in the northern regions of Rakhine State within the next 168 hours (seven days), and severe natural disasters could be encountered. "In the northern Rakhine State regions of Sittwe, Maungdaw, and Buthidaung, a total rainfall of over 500 millimeters can be expected within a week, and the risk of sudden floods, landslides, and debris flows from the mountains is high," U Win Naing warned. Similarly, in Putao and Machanbaw in Kachin State, and in Kantee and Homalin townships in upper Sagaing Region, it is urged to be cautious of flash floods due to rising river and stream water levels from continuous rainfall. Furthermore, it is warned that in northern Kachin State, upper Sagaing Region, and Tanintharyi Region, heavy rains are possible, which could lead to rising water levels in small rivers and streams and flash floods. Meanwhile, it is explained that in Magway Region, Mandalay Region, and Kayah State, rainfall may be less due to the rain shadow effect of the Rakhine Yoma mountain range. Currently, during the monsoon season, it has been raining heavily across Myanmar, and floods are occurring in some regions. In the past few days, floods were experienced in Tachileik city in eastern Shan State and Muse city in northern Shan State due to rainfall and debris flows from the mountains. Similarly, four townships in Kachin State, including Hpakant, are still experiencing floods. The Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement (MSLHA) of the National Unity Government (NUG) also stated in its weekly weather forecast released on June 29 that a low-pressure area could form in the Bay of Bengal on July 4 and could develop into a tropical depression. It is warned that with the strengthening of the monsoon and the influence of the depression, thunderstorms are possible across Myanmar, with localized heavy rains, strong winds, and flash floods in some areas.