Residents of the Inle region, already displaced by the March 28 earthquake, are facing renewed suffering as powerful winds ravaged their temporary shelters, compounding the widespread destruction of homes and monasteries across Shan State.

On April 27, severe winds tore through Kyartaw Village near Nangpang, ripping off the damaged roofs of earthquake-affected homes and flattening makeshift shelters. Local sources reported that terrified residents scrambled for cover as the storm brought heavy rain and hail.

“The wind was relentless—it stripped away roofs and scattered our temporary shelters. People were left exposed, struggling to protect themselves from the rain and wind,” said an Inle-based volunteer assisting earthquake victims.

The devastation extended beyond Shan State. In Demoso Township, Karenni State, displaced communities also suffered significant damage. A displaced woman shared her concerns: “Even though the rainy season has just begun, the storm caused serious damage. Our roofs weren’t secure, and I fear what will happen when the rains intensify.”

Tragically, heavy rain triggered a deadly rockfall in western Demoso Township, killing one person. Meanwhile, in Mong Lin Village, Tarlay Sub-Township, high winds damaged the roof of Wanha Village Monastery, leaving it in need of urgent repairs.

Further north, in Mong Yaw Village, Lashio Township, more than 10 houses collapsed under the force of the storm. While no human casualties were reported, several cattle perished in the wreckage.

Near Aungban and Kalaw Townships, fierce winds and torrential rain destroyed crops, wiping out large swathes of tomato and radish fields, according to social media reports.

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has warned of unseasonal rainfall expected between April 28 and May 3, raising fears of further hardship for vulnerable communities still recovering from the earthquake’s aftermath.