Asia is facing a climate catastrophe as cyclones and monsoon rains "like a tsunami" devastate communities, displacing millions and shattering records. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warns the crisis highlights the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather fueled by climate change. 🌍🔥
Worst-Hit Regions
Indonesia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the Philippines are among nations grappling with floods, landslides, and unprecedented rainfall. In Indonesia alone, over 1.5 million people are affected, with 604 fatalities reported as of Tuesday. Vietnam’s historic sites and tourist hubs are submerged after a record-breaking 1,739mm of rain fell in 24 hours—a figure now under global scrutiny. 📉
Humanitarian Emergency
Sri Lanka’s Cyclone Ditwah has left 1.4 million people stranded, including 275,000 children. UNICEF warns of disease risks and collapsing infrastructure, calling the situation a "fast-moving emergency." 🚨 UN Secretary-General António Guterres has pledged support, but aid groups stress resources are stretched thin.
Climate Change Link
WMO spokesperson Clare Nullis tied the disasters to rising global temperatures: "A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture—this is physics." With Asia’s flood risks escalating, experts urge urgent climate adaptation measures. 🌡️💔
