At least 17 people have been confirmed dead in Bali, Indonesia, after the island’s worst flooding in more than a decade.
Torrential rain last Tuesday and Wednesday triggered widespread flooding and landslides, leaving a trail of destruction. Eight victims were found in Denpasar, the island’s capital, and rescue teams continue to search for several others who remain missing.
Most deaths occurred when victims were swept away by flood water. More than 385mm of rain was recorded within a 24-hour period, leading to the evacuation of hundreds of people. The floods submerged roads and damaged bridges, severely disrupting transport across the island.
Flooding is common in Indonesia during the wet season, which typically runs from September to March. However, scientists say the climate crisis is intensifying the rainy season, bringing heavier rainfall and more frequent flash floods. Overdevelopment and widespread deforestation are believed to be worsening the impact of flooding.
Meanwhile, the Indian monsoon is in full force with devastating consequences. Half of the country is experiencing flooding, with the state of Punjab facing its worst floods since 1988. Landslides and flood waters have already killed hundreds of people across the country.
In neighbouring Pakistan, more than 2 million people have been evacuated from the eastern Punjab province. Since late June, monsoon-related floods have killed more than 900 people nationwide.
This year’s monsoon season began unusually early after India’s wettest May in 125 years. Traditionally, the monsoon starts in early June and lasts through to September.
In Australia, parts of New South Wales are recovering after 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.
