Torrential rainfall and floods have devastated South Asia, resulting in the tragic loss of over 200 lives and displacing millions of people. The occurrence of more frequent extreme weather events and the rapid urbanization in the region have contributed to this crisis.
Recent Casualties and Damage
- In India, more than 100 people lost their lives due to the floods, while nearly 40 fatalities were reported in Afghanistan.
- Nepal has also suffered greatly, with over 100 people losing their lives to flooding and landslides in recent weeks.
- Major rivers in Bangladesh overflowed after heavy rains, affecting over two million people and causing dangerous flooding.
Destruction of Infrastructure
Swollen rivers have breached embankments in India and Bangladesh, leading to the destruction of buildings, bridges, and other vital infrastructure. Villages and crops have also been devastated by the torrential rains and floods.
Climate Change Impact
While floods are not uncommon in South Asia during the monsoon season, the region has witnessed an increase in flood threats due to climate change. The monsoon season, crucial for millions of farmers in the area, usually spans from June to September.
According to climate scientist Roxy Mathew Koll from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, extreme rainfall events in India have tripled since 1950, highlighting the impact of climate change on the frequency and intensity of floods in the region.
