Catastrophic Floods Across Southern Asia Leave More Than 14,000 Dead

Written By: Rylan Walls

Adapted for Web By: Rylan Walls

SOUTHERN ASIA — Southern Asia is reeling as the death toll surpasses 14,000 following last week's catastrophic floods, brought on by days of relentless monsoon rains that inundated wide regions and left thousands stranded across multiple countries.

Flooding and ensuing landslides have claimed over 14,000 lives across the region. Indonesia, the worst-hit nation, reported 770 deaths, Sri Lanka 465, Thailand 185, and Malaysia three, while hundreds more were still missing as rescuers continued a round-the-clock operation.

Indonesia is the worst-hit country, with widespread devastation after Cyclone Senyar washed out roads and collapsed bridges. At least 650 people remain unaccounted for. Officials say it is Indonesia’s deadliest natural disaster since the 2018 earthquake that killed more than 4,000 people.

While Sri Lanka faces the disaster under particularly strained circumstances, massive Cyclone Ditwah hit the country at the same time-the country struggles to respond effectively as it is still recovering from a severe economic crisis, with limited resources, shortages of foreign exchange, and weakened public services.

Recovery efforts are reportedly going more smoothly in Thailand. A government spokesperson said water and electricity had been restored in almost all areas, while emergency crews continued to reach isolated communities.

As search and rescue teams are working to find survivors and assess the full extent of the damage, officials in the region warn the toll could continue to rise. For now, hopes remain focused on preventing further loss of life and supporting swift recovery in the hardest-hit communities.