Typhoon Yagi, the most powerful storm to hit Asia this year, has caused widespread devastation in Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, displacing hundreds of thousands of people and claiming over 400 lives. As of now, Vietnam has reported 292 deaths, while Myanmar mourns the loss of 113 lives. However, with many still missing, authorities fear the death toll could rise significantly.

The ferocious Typhoon Yagi struck the four countries with relentless winds and heavy rainfall over a week ago. After passing over China's Hainan Island, the cyclone intensified, becoming a super typhoon before making landfall in Vietnam's Quang Ninh province and Hai Phong City on 7th September 2024, at 1:45 pm local time.

The aftermath of Super Typhoon Yagi has resulted in extensive destruction in northern Vietnam, estimated to be around 40 crores. This significant damage is likely to have a severe impact on the country's economic growth for this year. Although Yagi has weakened into a tropical depression, it continues to bring heavy rainfall, leading to continued flooding and landslides across 26 provinces, including the capital city of Hanoi.

In Myanmar, the ruling junta has reported 113 fatalities and stated that more than 320,000 people have been displaced and are seeking shelter in temporary relief camps. The country has already witnessed devastating floods in the past, with over 100 deaths reported in similar incidents in 2011 and 2015. The catastrophic Cyclone Nargis in 2008 claimed the lives of more than 138,000 people.

The current crisis has prompted the ruling junta in Myanmar to make an unusual appeal for international aid. In response, India has dispatched 10 tonnes of supplies, including dry rations, clothing, and medicine, to support the affected areas. Additionally, India has launched 'Operation Sadbhav,' a relief initiative to provide assistance to Myanmar, Vietnam, and Laos, pledging $1 million in aid specifically for Vietnam.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported that the heaviest rainfall from Typhoon Yagi has primarily affected the capital, Naypyidaw, as well as the Mandalay, Magway, and Bago regions in Myanmar. The storm has also impacted the eastern and southern Shan state, along with Mon, Kayah, and Kayin states.

Meanwhile, Thailand has also suffered from the catastrophic effects of the typhoon, with at least 10 reported deaths due to floods and landslides. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited Mae Sai, which experienced its worst flooding in 80 years. Chiang Rai Airport has suspended flights, and authorities warn of ongoing flash flooding as the Mekong River's levels continue to rise.

The devastating consequences of Typhoon Yagi extend beyond loss of life and displacement. UNICEF has indicated that hundreds of thousands of children have lost their homes, with 2 million now deprived of access to education, psychosocial support, and school meal programs.

As Southeast Asia grapples with the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi, the international community has rallied to provide support and aid. While countries like India have stepped up with relief efforts, the affected regions will require substantial assistance to recover from this natural disaster and rebuild their shattered lives.