Asia Faces Devastating Floods as Millions Affected Across the Region

Himasha Dissanayake, JadeTimes Staff

H. Dissanayake is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia

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Image Source: Nikkei Asia

Asia is grappling with one of its most Devastating floods in recent decades, as unusually intense monsoon rains trigger widespread flooding, landslides, and mass displacement from South Asia to Southeast Asia. Millions have been affected, with several countries reporting catastrophic damage to homes, infrastructure, and critical services.

Sri Lanka has suffered the most severe impact. The death toll from floods and mudslides has risen above 330, while over 200 people remain missing. According to the Disaster Management Centre, more than 20,000 homes have been destroyed and at least 108,000 residents have been forced into state-run shelters. A third of the island has been left without electricity or clean water following the direct hit from Cyclone Ditwah.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake described the situation as “the most challenging natural disaster” in the country’s history, with emergency declarations still in effect. Rising water levels—especially along the Kelani River—continue to force new evacuation orders. Entire villages in districts such as Kandy and Badulla have been buried under mud and boulders, leaving dozens of communities inaccessible. Residents report rapidly depleting supplies of food and drinking water as key road networks remain blocked by ongoing landslides.

Rescue operations are underway with extensive military involvement. Survivors recount harrowing escapes, including one woman who climbed onto a collapsing roof as floodwaters surged around her. The government has appealed for international aid and has urged Sri Lankans abroad to contribute to the relief efforts.

Beyond Sri Lanka, countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand are also experiencing severe flooding and landslides. Swollen rivers, collapsing transport systems, and overwhelmed emergency shelters have intensified the crisis across Southeast Asia. Meteorologists report that although monsoons regularly bring heavy rainfall, this year’s conditions are unusually extreme.

For Sri Lanka, the disaster surpasses the destructive floods of 2003 and reflects a growing pattern of climate-intensified weather events unfolding across Asia. Authorities warn that unstable atmospheric conditions may persist, raising fears of further flooding as the monsoon season continues.