Extreme weather, intensified by climate change, has triggered devastating floods and landslides across South and Southeast Asia, killing over 600 people and displacing millions.
The severe monsoon rains and powerful tropical cyclones have caused the worst flooding in years across the region. Millions have been affected, and hundreds remain missing across Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia.
Indonesia reported more than 300 fatalities, primarily on Sumatra island. The region was battered by Cyclone Senyar, a rare tropical cyclone that caused widespread landslides and flash floods, submerging thousands of homes. Indonesian disaster agencies confirmed nearly 300 people are still missing in Sumatra.
In Thailand, over 160 deaths were confirmed across 10 affected provinces, impacting more than 3.8 million people. Songkhla province experienced floodwaters up to three meters deep, marking one of the worst events in a decade. Hat Yai district recorded 335 millimeters of rain in a single day, the heaviest rainfall in 300 years. The government pledged up to $54,000 in compensation for households that lost family members.
Sri Lanka, hit by Cyclone Ditwah, saw over 130 deaths and approximately 170 people missing. The government declared a state of emergency as more than 15,000 homes were destroyed and over 78,000 people sought refuge in temporary shelters. About one-third of the country also lost electricity and water supply.
Malaysia reported two fatalities, with severe damage observed particularly in the northern state of Perlis. Tens of thousands of residents were evacuated to relief centers.
Rescue operations faced significant challenges due to the persistent severe weather. Hundreds of people remained stranded, with some awaiting help on rooftops, while tens of thousands were successfully evacuated.
Meteorologists attribute the extreme conditions to a rare atmospheric clash between Typhoon Koto, originating near the Philippines, and the formation of Cyclone Senyar in the Malacca Strait.
Climate change experts warn that global warming is altering storm patterns, leading to heavier rainfall and more intense, prolonged monsoon seasons. This has resulted in more severe flash floods and stronger winds across the region.