Post by : Rameen Ariff

TUKKA, Indonesia – Devastating floods have swept across Southeast Asia, killing more than 1,600 people and leaving thousands displaced, with Indonesia facing the heaviest toll. The relentless downpours have affected Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam, with authorities warning that more rain could worsen the already catastrophic situation.

Indonesia has suffered the most, with officials reporting 846 deaths and 547 people missing, particularly in northern Aceh province on Sumatra Island. Over 800,000 residents have been displaced, many forced to seek shelter in schools and community centers. Survivors described homes buried under mud and debris, with many fearing the rebuilding process could take over a year. “Our house was covered by soil up to the ceiling,” said 42-year-old Rumita Laurasibuea, who is currently staying in a temporary shelter.

Authorities have also highlighted the risks of starvation and the urgent need for aid in remote areas. Bridges and roads have been destroyed, making relief delivery extremely difficult. Nanang Subana Dirja, Chief Executive of Islamic Relief Indonesia, described the situation as “very dire and heartbreaking,” noting that some flood-hit regions remain unreachable and ongoing rains continue to threaten residents.

Sri Lanka has reported 486 deaths from recent floods, with authorities mobilizing volunteers to assist in clean-up efforts. In towns like Gampola, residents have been working tirelessly to remove mud and water damage from homes, highlighting the scale of the disaster across the island. Thailand has reported 276 deaths, Malaysia two, and Vietnam at least two, where heavy rains also triggered multiple landslides.

The unusual scale and intensity of this year’s floods have led authorities in Vietnam to label 2025 as “the year with the most unusual natural disasters in history.” Scientists and environmentalists have linked the severity of the floods to climate change, noting that seasonal monsoons have become increasingly erratic and destructive across Asia. Deforestation in Indonesia has also been cited as a major factor, with the clearance of forests for plantations, mining, and fires worsening the impact of flash floods and landslides.

In response, the Indonesian government has revoked environmental permits of companies suspected of contributing to the disaster. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq warned that investigations could escalate to criminal prosecution if corporate negligence is proven to have aggravated the floods.

As heavy rain continues to lash Aceh, North, and West Sumatra, officials are urging residents to remain cautious. Humanitarian agencies are racing against time to provide food, water, and shelter, while families in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam face the daunting task of rebuilding lives shattered by one of the deadliest flood seasons in recent Asian history.

#Asia News