Officials in Indonesia and Sri Lanka are struggling to reach survivors of widespread floods that have hit four countries. The death toll is rising and missing, while many areas remain impassable and without electricity or communications. Many residents expressed frustration due to the slow arrival of aid and rescue.
In Indonesia, more than 804 people have been reported dead and more than 650 are missing. According to groups such as Mercy Corps, the damage is extensive and logistics are extremely difficult. Many areas are short of water, food, and hygiene supplies. Evacuees like Reinaro Waruwu expressed deep disappointment at the government's slow response and the hardship they are experiencing in evacuation centers.
There are also many stories of personal loss. There are people who have lost their homes, their belongings have been destroyed, and families who do not know what will happen next. In Aceh, hundreds are begging for clean water, while many areas are only now being reached. In Sri Lanka, up to 474 have died due to Cyclone Ditwah, and thousands of families are cleaning up and rebuilding after deep mudslides and damage.
Despite the tragedy, Sri Lanka insisted that tourism is still open after a luxury cruise ship arrived in Colombo. Its tourism board said it was ready to welcome visitors again while dealing with the extensive damage left by widespread flooding.
