ULA health department urges Arakan residents to prepare for El Niño

By Admin 05 Nov 2026

DMG Newsroom

5 November 2026, Mrauk-U

The Department of Public Health under the United League of Arakan (ULA) has issued a public health advisory urging residents across Arakan State to take precautionary measures against extreme heat and unusual weather conditions expected as the El Niño phenomenon intensifies.

According to the ULA Department of Public Health, the effects of El Niño are expected to affect the state from late 2026 through early 2027.

Health officials warned that extreme temperatures and changing weather patterns could increase the risk of heatstroke, diarrhea, dengue fever and acute respiratory infections. They advised the public to drink plenty of water during the hottest hours of the day, wear lightweight clothing, use umbrellas or hats when outdoors, and stay in well-ventilated places.

The advisory urges residents to avoid direct exposure to sunlight between noon and 4:00 p.m., avoid alcohol and limit coffee consumption, and take precautions when consuming food and water.

The ULA Department of Public Health also advised people not to leave young children or domestic animals in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces. It warned residents to avoid unhygienic food and water that could cause diarrheal illnesses.

Health officials urged anyone experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, vomiting, an unusually high body temperature or an inability to sweat to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital or clinic.

El Niño is expected to contribute to extreme weather conditions in Arakan State, including intense heat, severe drought, higher temperatures and sudden localized storms.

Meteorological experts have warned that rising sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean associated with El Niño can disrupt weather patterns, with potential consequences for Myanmar's agriculture, livestock, fisheries and environment. They have urged relevant sectors and communities to prepare for the possible impacts.