Rescue services continue their work to search for survivors and the bodies of victims of the disaster that occurred on December 2. The number of victims of the floods and landslides affecting Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand has exceeded 1200 people, according to DW.
Currently, more than 800 people are considered missing. Monsoon rains that lasted several days led to the flooding of large areas, isolating thousands of people and forcing many to seek shelter on the roofs of their homes.
According to information from authorities, the total number of victims has reached 1250 people: 659 fatalities have been recorded in Indonesia, 410 in Sri Lanka, and 181 in Thailand.
Indonesia has been the hardest hit, where rescuers are facing enormous difficulties in trying to reach flooded villages on the island of Sumatra. Destroyed bridges and washed-out roads significantly complicate the work. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency has confirmed that 475 people are still listed as missing. Despite the use of helicopters and boats, worsening weather and destruction hinder rescue operations.
Sri Lanka: Search for the missing continues
In Sri Lanka, military teams continue to search for 352 people missing due to floods and landslides caused by Cyclone Dithwa. According to the Disaster Management Center, access to some areas remains difficult: roads are blocked by landslides, and in several places, bridges have collapsed.
In the city of Kandy, locals are experiencing a shortage of drinking water and are forced to use bottled water collected from natural sources. Authorities warn that the situation may worsen as new rains are expected in the coming days.
Thailand's recovery from floods
Meanwhile, in southern Thailand, work has begun to clear streets and buildings after the widespread floods that affected more than 1.5 million households and 3.9 million people. Authorities are restoring water and electricity supplies.
The Ministry of Interior of Thailand has announced the establishment of community kitchens to prepare hot meals for the affected. Government representative Siripong Angkasakulkiat reported that 26,000 people will receive the first tranche of compensation amounting to 239 million baht (approximately 6.44 million euros).
