Severe flooding and landslides triggered by torrential rains have claimed more lives across Southeast Asia, with Vietnam and Thailand reporting new fatalities and tens of thousands displaced.
In Vietnam, the death toll has risen to 91, with 11 others missing. The week-long deluge has devastated an 800-kilometer stretch of the country’s central region, with the highland province of Dak Lak suffering the worst losses. Helicopters are delivering aid and evacuating residents where roads have been washed away. Preliminary damage is estimated at $500 million, compounding losses from earlier typhoons.
Thailand is also grappling with the aftermath, reporting five additional deaths. The southern city of Hat Yai experienced its heaviest rainfall in 300 years, stranding hundreds and forcing rescues by lifeboat. The floods have affected nearly two million people in the region.
Meanwhile, in Malaysia, over 12,500 people have been evacuated as flooding spreads across nine states, with authorities warning of more rain to come.
Scientists warn that a warming climate is intensifying such storms, making destructive floods increasingly frequent and severe across the vulnerable region.
By James Kisoo
