Death Toll From Asia Floods Climbs Past 1,700 as Sumatra Counts 908 Dead

Overview

• Indonesia’s BNPB reports 908 deaths and 410 missing on Sumatra after floods and landslides triggered by cyclone Ditwah and seasonal monsoon rains.
• Sri Lanka confirms 607 dead with 214 missing, while Thailand’s toll stands at 267, pushing the regional fatalities to well over 1,700.
• Rescue teams face blocked roads, steep terrain and fresh downpours that slow access to isolated communities and reduce chances of finding survivors.
• Indonesia’s Environment Ministry has suspended companies under investigation for illegal clearing and ordered audits, naming North Sumatra Hydro Energy and Agincourt Resources near Batang Toru.
• Aceh is the hardest-hit Sumatran province with at least 345 dead and 174 missing, where access constraints and reported shortages complicate relief; Indonesia and Sri Lanka have requested international assistance.