Severe Flooding and Landslides in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand Result in Hundreds of Fatalities

Severe weather conditions in South Asia have resulted in catastrophic flooding and landslides, leading to at least 227 fatalities across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Authorities have described the current situation as among the worst in years.

* Indonesia: Death Toll Exceeds 84 with Many Missing

The island of Sumatra is grappling with severe flooding and landslides following heavy rainfall. As of Friday, the confirmed death toll has reached 84, with rescue efforts ongoing for numerous individuals reported missing.

In North Sumatra, police spokesperson Feri Walintukan stated to AFP, "As of this morning, we have recorded 62 fatalities, with 95 injuries and at least 65 people still unaccounted for."

Meanwhile, West Sumatra has reported at least 22 deaths, with 12 individuals still missing, according to local disaster management officials.

* Thailand: Flood Deaths Rise to 87

In southern Thailand, the government has announced that the death toll from ongoing flooding has risen to 87 as of Friday morning. Authorities have issued warnings of deteriorating weather conditions across several provinces.

* Sri Lanka: Nationwide Lockdown and Rising Casualties

Sri Lanka has implemented a lockdown of government offices and schools as the situation worsens. Local officials report that the death toll has climbed to 56, with over 600 homes damaged by the floods and landslides.

The situation has deteriorated since Thursday, with heavy rains inundating homes, agricultural fields, and roadways. Landslides in tea-growing regions of Badulla and Nuwara Eliya, approximately 300 kilometers east of Colombo, have resulted in at least 25 fatalities.

Additionally, there are reports of 21 missing individuals and 14 injuries in these areas, as per the government’s disaster management center.

Heavy rainfall has caused rivers and reservoirs to overflow, leading to major road closures and the suspension of passenger train services due to flooding and debris blocking railways.

* Ongoing Rescue Efforts Amidst New Rainfall Warnings

Rescue teams across the three affected countries are working under hazardous conditions, as authorities warn of further rainfall that may worsen the situation. Many residents have lost their homes and are searching for loved ones amid the devastation.