South Asia’s Monsoon Storms Take a Heavy Toll
In the bleak stretch between June and September, the monsoon has turned into a nightmare for South Asia, claiming over 1,200 lives so far this year. Below is a quick rundown of the heartbreak, the figures, and a dash of humor to keep things light.
India’s Calamity
- Kerala: Nearly 445 souls lost, with bodies still emerging as teams work to piece together the disaster’s puzzle.
- Roughly 1 million also found themselves shopping for makeshift shelters in relief camps.
- There were 15 missing people reported on Monday, August 27.
- Across the country, Kerala took on half of the 1,000+ deaths: 160 in Karnataka, 200 in Uttar Pradesh, and 195 in West Bengal.
And guess what? It’s the worst flood Kerala has seen in almost a century—yes, that’s a 100‑year mark.
Beyond India
- Nepal: 87 people lost since June, including a tragic incident where a woman and eight children were swept away during a landslide in a remote village.
- Sri Lanka: The early evacuation of 750,000 people in high‑risk zones saved lives, dropping the death toll to just 24 from last year’s 224.
- Bangladesh: At least 29 people fell victim to floods and landslides.
A Look Back
In June 2013, the monsoon in Uttarakhand swept through the northern part of India, killing about 5,800 people—an event still remembered as the hard‑hitting monsoon disaster of recent times.
The Takeaway
These numbers remind us that nature is a formidable force, but with better preparation, earlier warnings, and community solidarity, we can hope to turn the tide. Until then, the monsoon will keep coming—so keep your umbrellas handy and your spirits high.
