1,338 People Have Been Killed Across South And Southeast Asia Due To Intense Floods And Tropical Storms

Heavy monsoon rains and tropical storms have triggered floods and landslides across South and Southeast Asia, killing more than 1,300 people and leaving hundreds missing.

The monsoon rains affected several countries, including Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and the Philippines.

The floods were made worse in some countries by tropical storms, including Typhoon Koto, which caused severe flash floods and landslides in the Philippines; Cyclone Senyar, which hit Indonesia’s northern Sumatra severely; and Cyclone Ditwah, which caused devastation in Sri Lanka, according to Al Jazeera.

In Indonesia, the worst-hit country, flooding and landslides have killed more than 744 people, while 504 remain missing as roads and bridges were destroyed, hampering rescue efforts.

Witnesses reported landslides everywhere, particularly on Sumatra Island, with more than 3.2 million people affected and about one million evacuated. 

In Sri Lanka, heavy rainfall and a cyclone have killed at least 410 people, prompting a national emergency, with the  president Anura Kumara Dissanayake saying it is too early to determine the exact number of dead in his country.

In Thailand, water rose over three meters, with floods and landslides displacing millions, causing widespread disruption and killing at least 181 people.

In addition, parts of Vietnam, Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries have reported casualties, massive displacements and damage to homes and infrastructure. 

The flooding and landslides have killed at least 1,338 people in the region as recovery and rescue operations involving military and emergency responders are still ongoing.

Relief organizations warn millions more people may need food, shelter, water and medical aid.

Scientists say climate change is making storms more frequent and intense, resulting in heavier rainfall, flash flooding and stronger winds.

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