At least 17 individuals have lost their lives in Bali, Indonesia, due to the island’s most severe flooding in more than a decade.
Heavy rain over Tuesday and Wednesday led to extensive flooding and landslides, resulting in considerable destruction. Eight victims were found in Denpasar, the capital city, and rescue teams continue their search for those still missing.
The majority of deaths occurred when individuals were swept away by floodwater. Within a 24-hour period, over 385mm of rain was recorded, resulting in the evacuation of hundreds of people. The floods submerged roads and damaged bridges, significantly disrupting transportation throughout the island.
Flooding is common in Indonesia during the wet season, which typically spans from September to March. However, scientists assert that the climate crisis is intensifying the rainy season, leading to heavier rainfall and more frequent flash floods. Overdevelopment and widespread deforestation are believed to exacerbate the effects of flooding.
Meanwhile, the Indian monsoon is exerting its full force with devastating repercussions. Half of the country is experiencing flooding, with the state of Punjab facing its worst floods since 1988. Landslides and floodwaters have already claimed the lives of hundreds of people nationwide.
In neighboring Pakistan, more than 2 million individuals have been evacuated from the eastern Punjab province. Since late June, monsoon-related floods have resulted in the deaths of more than 900 people across the country.
This year’s monsoon season commenced abnormally early, following India’s wettest May in 125 years. Traditionally, the monsoon begins in early June and lasts until September.
In Australia, parts of New South Wales are recovering from record-breaking rainfall and severe storms. On Thursday, Sydney recorded 122mm of rain in just 24 hours, making it the city’s wettest September day since records began in 1879.
Two tornadoes were confirmed as powerful storms swept across the state. Some areas in New South Wales received more than double their average September rainfall in a single day.
Sydney’s Observatory Hill weather station has already recorded more than 170mm this month, significantly exceeding the long-term monthly average. This follows one of the wettest Augusts on record, putting the city on track for one of its soggiest years.
