On March 7, a wildfire spread to a displaced persons’ camp in eastern Loikaw Township, Karenni State, and it destroyed two displaced families’ makeshift homes.

Although the wildfire originated from a location far from the camp, strong winds carried embers, causing the two homes to catch fire and burn down, said a member of the camp’s refugee committee.

“On the 7th of March, a wildfire broke out in a distant area. However, due to strong winds, embers flew over and set fire to two homes around 3 PM, even though the fire was quite far away,” the committee member explained.

No injuries were reported, but all belongings inside the houses were completely destroyed.

Currently, the camp committee and local administrative groups are assisting the affected families, but no external aid has been received yet.

“We have provided what we can, including temporary shelters, pot, plate, rice, oil, and salt. Both the committee and local authorities are helping. We informed to receive outside assistance, but we haven’t gotten any information yet,” the official added.

The camp hosts around 1,500 houses, with a total population of over 6,000.

In March 2024, a wildfire also spread to a village in eastern Loikaw Township, destroying 29 homes and causing significant losses of stored rice and crops.