Asia is experiencing severe destruction from a combination of powerful cyclones and heavy monsoon rains, which the World Meteorological Organization says is causing damage comparable to a “tsunami.” Indonesia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Thailand and the Philippines are among the hardest-hit.
Indonesia has reported over 600 deaths and more than 1.5 million people affected. Vietnam has faced weeks of extreme rain, including a possible national record for 24-hour rainfall. Sri Lanka is dealing with a fast-moving humanitarian crisis after Cyclone Ditwah impacted 1.4 million people and severely disrupted basic services.
The UN has offered condolences and pledged support to all affected countries. Experts say climate change is increasing the intensity of extreme rainfall, making Asia more vulnerable to future disasters.
Credit : CGTN