Floods hit hard in SE Asia

SE Asia (GFA) — [EDITOR’S NOTE: This is an article posted directly from Gospel for Asia. Click here to learn more about this ministry.]

Heavy monsoon rains in the western region of Myanmar have created floods that have killed at least 22 people in one town. Flood waters have also washed away houses belonging to believers who attend churches led by pastors supported by Gospel for Asia.

The incessant rains have destroyed nearly 300 homes in the region, leaving many homeless with no food to eat and no place to sleep.

Around 1,500 people were evacuated when the flooding began. The Myanmar Red Cross has been working with the local authorities to evacuate families to safety and to distribute food, water and first aid kits to those in need.

The rains also triggered landslides, which have made roads and bridges inaccessible, hindering relief efforts.

Gospel for Asia supports ministry in 18 villages that are affected by the monsoon floods.

Meanwhile, in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India, the recent heavy rains have created landslides that have killed at least 40 people.

Because this region is close to Nepal, the earthquakes that hit Nepal in April and May also shook the Darjeeling area, making it vulnerable to landslides.

“Almost all roads are blocked by mud and big stones,” reports a Gospel for Asia-supported field correspondent. “In some places, bridges have totally collapsed…. It is all because of God’s grace that all our missionaries, believers and church buildings are safe.”

Gospel for Asia-supported workers ask for prayers during this situation.

Please pray for:

• God’s protection over the people living in the western region of Myanmar and in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India.
• Those who are grieving the loss of their loved ones.
• God’s strength to sustain the missionaries and believers in these areas as they help and comfort those who are suffering.