Intensified fighting across 13 villages in southern Shan State, Myanmar, has forced thousands of civilians to flee their homes since June 2, as clashes between the military, the Pa-O National Organization (PNO) militia, and revolutionary forces show no signs of abating.

The conflict has hit eastern Pai Khun (Pekon) Township particularly hard, displacing residents from villages including Taung Poet Ktwe, Yae Pu, Phayar Taung, Hsant Swae, Hsant Lake, Loi Paw, Saung Nankhae, Nam Paw Lon, Mak Khur Kham, Lahe, Nyaung Mun, Taung Poet Gyi, and Kone Pa.

“The fighting reached our doorstep and we had no choice but to run,” said a displaced villager who sought refuge in the forest. “Women and children left first, while some men stayed behind to protect what they could.”

With limited safe havens, many displaced families have crowded into monasteries and makeshift shelters near Hsihseng Township or are hiding in forests along the Pai Khun Township border. Reports indicate severe shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies, raising concerns of a deepening humanitarian crisis.

“We escaped with nothing,” another survivor recounted. “Surviving in the forest without basic necessities has been a daily struggle.”

Meanwhile, the Mobye People’s Defense Force (PDF) confirmed ongoing clashes near Mong Pai (Mobye), close to the Shan-Karenni border. Authorities have warned civilians to avoid the Mong Pai main road due to escalating violence and heightened risks to travelers.

As displacement numbers rise, aid organizations stress the urgent need for food, shelter, and medical assistance to support affected communities. Without immediate intervention, the crisis threatens to worsen, leaving thousands more vulnerable to hunger, exposure, and further violence.