Case Study: Cyclone Nargis - Responses
Geography: Cambridge International GCSE (2027 Exams), topic 2.4.8
Case Study: Cyclone Nargis Responses and Future Preparation
Cyclone Nargis struck the Irrawaddy delta area in Myanmar on 2nd May 2008. Cyclone Nargis is the worst natural disaster in the recorded history of Myanmar.
Responses 1
- The government of Myanmar refused entry to many aid agencies.
- Myanmar was under the rule of an oppressive military junta (military dictatorship) that believed letting aid agencies in would lead to destabilisation.
- On May 9th, the first aid was allowed in.
- Food, medicines, water purifiers were allowed in - but no aid workers.
- Myanmar accepted help from India first, then Italy, Bangladesh, Thailand, UK, USA, etc.
Responses 2
- On May 23rd, three weeks after the first landfall of the cyclone, international aid workers were allowed in. This included the Red Cross from Thailand, which brought food and medical supplies. Twenty medical teams and twenty quick communicable disease suppression units also came in.
- The UK sent £17 million and an international relief team to coordinate relief efforts.
Preparation for the future 1
- It is impossible to stop cyclones. But efforts have been made to minimise the effects in the event of future hazards:
- 93 Red Cross posts for community-based first aid have been made across the country.
- School children are taught good hygiene practices to try and stop diseases from spreading.
- New wells were built so clean water can be accessed.
Preparation for the future 2
- Efforts continued:
- 4000 people from 136 villages in at-risk areas have been trained in disaster risk management.
- They have been given stretchers, educational materials and loudspeakers so they can make announcements and warning.
- Telephone lines have been installed and people have purchased portable telephones to improve communication links with other areas of the country.
- People can know where aid or help is needed and can send help quickly.
Test yourself on Case Study: Cyclone Nargis - Responses
Order of events in response to Cyclone Nargis
Why did the government of Myanmar refuse entry to many aid agencies initially?
Who did Myanmar accept help from first?
Which of the following statements about responses to Cyclone Nargis are true?
How is Myanmar preparing for future cyclones?