Precaution Measures: Meeting on El Niño disaster preparedness

A coordination meeting on preparedness for natural disasters that could result from the El Niño weather phenomenon was held in Nay Pyi Taw on Thursday, with Vice President U Nyo Saw delivering remarks.

The Vice President stressed the need to make early preparations for possible extreme weather caused by El Niño, including extreme heat, drought, sudden storms and unusually heavy rainfall. He stressed to carry out preparations measures in line with a multi-hazard approach rather than focusing only on drought.

He noted that El Niño conditions could continue to strengthen in Myanmar during 2026 and may remain influential until early 2027. He called for measures to reduce risks to agriculture, food and water supplies, health, livestock, energy, the economy and communities.

He also highlighted the need to grow heat and drought resistant crops, open cooling shelters, prevent heat-related health problems, prepare for reduced water supplies and electricity generation, and consider solar power as an alternative where hydropower generation is affected. Attendees reported on preparedness and preventive measures in their respective sectors and areas. The Vice President coordinated necessary measures and delivered closing remarks.