Myanmar state media reported that military leader Min Aung Hlaing and other Myanmar officials visited flood-stricken areas to inspect rescue and relief efforts.
The death toll is believed to be much higher, according to Radio Free Asia, while the U.S.-backed broadcaster said at least 160 people have died from floods and landslides.
Rescue workers in Taungoo told BBC Burma on Saturday that more than 300 people were trapped by floodwaters on the eastern bank of the Sittaung River.
“There aren’t enough boats to rescue us,” the rescuer said.
Scientists say climate change is making typhoons and hurricanes stronger and more frequent. Warmer ocean waters mean storms absorb more energy, which leads to higher wind speeds.
Warmer air holds more moisture, which can lead to more rain.
According to the United Nations, three years of civil war have displaced much of Myanmar’s population, killing thousands and displacing more than 2.6 million people.
