Heavy rains are hampering relief operations in Myanmar, where state media reported that the death toll from a devastating earthquake has reached nearly 3,500.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck on March 28, destroying buildings, knocking out power, and damaging bridges and roads across the country. The damage was particularly severe in the city of Sagaing, near the quake's epicenter, as well as in Mandalay, Myanmar's second largest city with more than 1.7 million residents.
According to reports from Myanmar media, up to 3,471 people have died and 4,671 have been injured, while 214 are missing. Many people have lost their homes or are unsure whether their homes are safe, so many of them are sleeping in tents outside.
On Saturday night, heavy rain and winds lashed tent cities in Mandalay, according to the UN Development Programme. People and their belongings were soaked due to a lack of tarpaulins. This came as damaged buildings raised fears of further collapse and hindering the search for bodies.
Aid experts have said that severe heat and rain are increasing the risk of diseases in makeshift camps. According to UN aid chief Tom Fletcher, urgent assistance is needed for food, water, and power repairs for earthquake victims.
