Severe floods leave over 600 dead across South and Southeast Asia

Guwahati: Torrential monsoon rains, intensified by tropical storms, have caused severe floods and landslides across several South and Southeast Asian countries, leaving around 600 people dead and millions affected.

Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka have reported extensive damage, with many areas experiencing their worst flooding in years.

Heavy rainfall began in Indonesia’s Sumatra island on Wednesday, destroying homes and sweeping away entire villages.

Indonesia has reported more than 300 deaths, and hundreds of people are still missing. Rescue efforts are being slowed by continuous rain, and many survivors remain stranded on rooftops or in isolated areas.

Sri Lanka, hit by Cyclone Ditwah, has reported over 130 deaths and around 170 missing.

Authorities say thousands of homes have been damaged, and large parts of the country are without electricity and clean water.

Thailand’s southern provinces have also been severely impacted. In Songkhla, water levels rose up to three metres, contributing to more than 160 deaths across ten provinces. Over 3.8 million people have been affected. Hat Yai city recorded its heaviest rainfall in three centuries, overwhelming hospitals and rescue services.

In Malaysia, flooding has forced tens of thousands from their homes, particularly in northern Perlis state, where two deaths have been confirmed.

In Indonesia, an exceptionally rare tropical cyclone, Cyclone Senyar, triggered massive landslides and flash floods.

Many residents described how water surged into their homes within seconds. The country’s disaster agency says that nearly 300 people remain unaccounted for.

Across the region, rescue operations are ongoing, but bad weather continues to hinder relief work. Governments in the affected countries have declared emergencies, evacuated thousands, and announced compensation for families who lost loved ones.

Meteorologists say the extreme weather may be linked to Typhoon Koto in the Philippines and the unusual formation of Cyclone Senyar in the Malacca Strait.

Experts also warn that climate change is intensifying monsoon patterns, leading to heavier rainfall, flash floods, and stronger storms.