Hundreds of IDP shelters damaged as heavy rain, strong winds hit Arakan State

By Admin 30 Apr 2026

DMG Newsroom

30 April 2026, Ponnagyun

Internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Arakan State are facing severe difficulties after heavy rain and strong winds in recent days damaged their shelters, leaving many unable to carry out repairs.

On April 29, heavy rainfall and strong winds struck Arakan State, damaging the roofs of approximately 500 IDP shelters in Ponnagyun Township, according to aid workers.

"Because of the strong winds and heavy rain, the roofs of about 500 houses in the IDP camps were blown off. Over 10 houses were completely destroyed. We haven't been able to reach all the IDP camps yet, so the damage could be even higher," said Ko Pyae Phyo Naing, chairman of the Ponnagyun Youths Association.

The IDP shelters, which are temporary huts made of bamboo, nipa palm leaves, and tarpaulin sheets, were unable to withstand the severe weather.

In Kyaukphyu and Ramree townships, where over 30,000 IDPs are sheltering, more than 10,000 people are reportedly facing difficulties due to a lack of secure housing.

"The rain started yesterday and the winds were very strong. IDPs are in trouble because of this rain. They haven't been able to repair their homes yet due to financial difficulties," said an aid worker in Kyaukphyu Township.

Many IDPs are living in temporary shelters along roadsides, in open fields, and near forested hills, facing natural disasters alongside ongoing livelihood challenges.

Over 2,000 IDPs in Rathedaung Township said financial hardship has made it impossible to repair their homes.

"Around this time last year, organizations and the Humanitarian and Development Coordination Office provided support, so house repairs were completed. Now the rain has started and the houses aren't ready. They can't afford to do it themselves. If the rain gets heavier, we are worried for the children and the elderly," said a person assisting IDPs in Rathedaung Township.

Similarly, IDP camps in Kyauktaw, Minbya, Gwa, Ann, and Taungup townships are in urgent need of shelter assistance.

Since fighting resumed in Arakan State in November 2023, more than 600,000 people have been displaced, facing a lack of aid, rising commodity prices, and limited job opportunities, along with increasing exposure to natural disasters.

A UNOCHA report issued on March 9, 2026, stated that Arakan State is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, particularly in terms of food security.