Sri Lanka and Indonesia are grappling with catastrophic floods after weeks of incessant rainfall, exposing the growing fragility of South and Southeast Asia to climate change.
Overflowing rivers, landslides, and mass displacements have left thousands stranded and vulnerable, emphasizing the devastating human cost of unpreparedness.
Experts warn that these disasters are not isolated incidents. The region is warming faster than the global average, resulting in more frequent and intense rainfall events.
Yet, climate adaptation measures remain insufficient, urban planning is outdated, and disaster response is largely reactive.
The experiences of Sri Lanka and Indonesia serve as a stark warning for other nations in the region, including Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, which could face similar extreme weather events if proactive measures are not taken.
Authorities and experts urge governments to prioritize climate-focused governance, invest in resilient infrastructure, enhance early-warning systems, and make decisions grounded in scientific data.
The recent floods demonstrate that without immediate action, lives, livelihoods, and long-term development are at risk.