Ayeyarwady Region Government issues emergency evacuation/alert due to Ngwanta Dam breach, potential flood risk in Letmaenar and surrounding areas

The Ayeyarwady Region Government has issued an announcement calling for emergency evacuation and caution due to the risk of flooding in Letmaenar town and its surrounding areas caused by a breach in the Ngwanta dam. According to the government's announcement, a breach of approximately 20 feet occurred in the embankment of the Ngwanta dam around 10:45 PM on July 30th due to river water pressure. River water has begun to enter the inner side of the embankment to a depth of approximately 2.5 feet, the government announced. The river water that has entered the embankment may flow into Myitchi In to the east, Chaungzauk, Sayaygon Chaung, and Dase Myo to the northeast, the government announced. Therefore, residents living in low-lying farmlands, low-lying wards within Letmaenar town, and near agricultural lands are urged to immediately evacuate to safe highlands, factories, schools, prayer halls, and relevant rescue camps. They are also instructed to prioritize the relocation of belongings, valuable documents, medicines, food, the elderly, and children to safe locations. Furthermore, they are advised to be cautious of electrical hazards and to turn off the main electrical switches in their homes. The government has informed that in case of difficulties, residents should immediately contact and seek assistance from village/ward administrative bodies, rescue teams, and fire brigade members. The public is urged not to panic but to strictly follow the emergency instructions from the relevant authorities and evacuate to safe areas as quickly as possible.