Climate Change Intensifies Deadly Monsoon Floods Across Asia

The climate crisis has intensified monsoon floods across Asia, resulting in the loss of over 1,750 lives, as reported by scientists. In Sri Lanka, floods reached unprecedented heights, inundating buildings up to the second floor, while in Sumatra, deforestation exacerbated flooding by increasing rainwater runoff.

Analysis by World Weather Attribution revealed that heavy rain events have increased in intensity by 28 to 160 percent due to human-caused global warming. Dr. Sarah Kew from the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute emphasized that while monsoon rains are typical, their growing intensity is alarming.

The economic impact in Sri Lanka is estimated at $6 to $7 billion, representing 3 to 5 percent of the national GDP. Experts highlight that the most vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected, facing long recovery paths due to the compounded effects of climate change and inadequate urban planning that has seen growth in flood-prone areas.

This situation serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need for climate action to mitigate future disasters.