News|Climate CrisisHeavy rains hamper recovery as death toll from floods in Asia exceeds 1,750Hundreds more people are still missing as intensive rains pose new dangers in Indonesia and Sri Lanka.
## Environmental Impact and Disaster Response
Environmental Impact and Disaster Response
Rescue operations are underway in Asia due to severe floods and landslides, resulting in a confirmed death toll exceeding 1,750 individuals across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
In Indonesia, the latest reports indicate 908 deaths and 410 missing persons on the island of Sumatra, particularly in Aceh province. Over 800,000 residents have been displaced. The meteorological agency forecasts "very heavy rain" through Saturday in Aceh, with North and West Sumatra also at risk.
Governor Muzakir Manaf has highlighted the ongoing threat of starvation in remote villages, stating, "Many areas remain untouched in the remote areas of Aceh." Entire villages have been destroyed in Aceh Tamiang.
Sri Lanka has reported 607 deaths and 214 missing individuals. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has identified over 71,000 damaged homes, including nearly 5,000 destroyed by floods and landslides. Continued heavy rainfall poses risks of new landslides and challenges cleanup operations.
In Indonesia, the latest reports indicate 908 deaths and 410 missing persons on the island of Sumatra, particularly in Aceh province.
Thailand has reported 276 deaths, while Malaysia and Vietnam each confirmed two fatalities due to landslides triggered by heavy rains.
Contributing Factors and Response Measures
Recent disasters in the region have been exacerbated by climate change and deforestation. Indonesia's Forestry Minister, Raja Juli Antoni, announced the revocation of logging licenses for 20 companies, covering 750,000 hectares, including affected areas in Sumatra. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq suspended operations of palm oil, mining, and power plant companies in northern Sumatra.
Environmental experts emphasize the role of rainforest cover in mitigating flood impact. Deforestation has removed natural barriers, allowing unimpeded water flow during heavy rainfalls.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
