Relentless monsoon rains and back-to-back tropical systems have unleashed catastrophic flooding across South and Southeast Asia, leaving hundreds dead, millions affected, and entire communities submerged.

From Indonesia and the Philippines to Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam, the region is facing one of its most devastating rainfall seasons in recent years.

Rising Waters, Rising Alarms: How Global Warming Is Reshaping the World’s Flood Future

Meteorological agencies across Asia are operating around the clock, while the WMO Coordination Mechanism is providing real-time guidance to support humanitarian response. Warmer temperatures are driving heavier rainfall, amplifying Asia’s long-standing vulnerability to floods and cyclones.

Indonesia has been hit hardest, with more than 600 deaths, hundreds missing, and over 1.5 million people affected after Tropical Cyclone Senyar triggered massive floods and landslides across Sumatra.

In Vietnam, weeks of torrential rains have inundated cities, farmlands, and historic sites, while a potential new 24-hour rainfall record is under review.

The Philippines continues to recover from two deadly typhoons that affected millions, and Sri Lanka is grappling with its worst flooding in decades, with nearly a million people impacted.

Thailand has also reported severe flooding across multiple provinces, affecting millions and causing significant loss of life.

These unfolding disasters underscore the urgent need for stronger early warning systems.

Through regional forecasting programs, flash-flood tools, and the global Early Warnings for All initiative, WMO is helping nations improve preparedness — because in a rapidly warming climate, timely alerts are becoming one of the most critical lines of defense.

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