DiscoverThe Climate QuestionWhat made the floods in South East Asia so deadly?
What made the floods in South East Asia so deadly?

What made the floods in South East Asia so deadly?

Update: 2025-12-14
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Storms, cyclones and flooding in South East Asia have killed close to 2000 people, devastating communities across Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Scientists warn climate change is reshaping weather patterns, increasing the risk of heavier rainfall and more destructive floods in the future.

With many densely populated cities sinking and built on flood-prone land, the region is particularly vulnerable. But experts say there are bold ideas and solutions that could help reduce the risks and save lives.

In this special collaboration between The Climate Question and the new BBC World Service podcast Asia Specific, Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar join host Mariko Oi to explore what made the floods so deadly — and what can be done in the future.

Sound engineer: Tom Brignell
Editors: Bill Birtles and Simon Watts

Got a question or a comment? You can email us: theclimatequestion@bbc.com

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What made the floods in South East Asia so deadly?

What made the floods in South East Asia so deadly?

BBC World Service