The current flood crisis experienced by countries across the globe is a result of the combined effects of drought and series of typhoons that happened last year. When the sea temperatures become lower than the average, heavy rains start to pour causing water systems to overflow in various areas. This is called the La Nina effect which is believed to be the reason why there are widespread floods in all the continents of the world. Among those countries currently experiencing flood crisis are Australia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Colombia, Venezuela and Brazil.
Brazil – The freak weather condition in Rio de Janeiro, the second largest city in Brazil, caused flooding and landslides that brought devastation to towns and villages in the area. In just 24 hours, the volume of the rainfall was more than a month’s worth and this caused hillsides to collapse killing over 500 people. Considered as one of the worst natural disasters, many houses were crumpled with a number of people buried alive. The residents watched in horror how the raging flow of water and mud swept away their homes and properties.
Sri Lanka – Just recovering from the effects of a tsunami, around 400,000 people in Sri Lanka are living in evacuation centres due to heavy monsoon rains and flooding. The overall effects of the severe floods affected one million people as their lives were disrupted by the heaviest rainfall felt since 1917. The rivers overflowed causing dams to break and immobilised transport systems. With 18 people killed due to flood and landslide, the death toll is expected to rise due to the bad weather condition that makes relief and rescue operations difficult.
Philippines – The heavy rains for the last two weeks damaged properties, infrastructure and crops in 25 provinces in the Philippines. There were 42 deaths and around 400,000 homeless due to flooding and landslides. A warning to prepare for flash floods and landslides were released to people living in low lying areas.
What to do during floods? If there are warnings for flash flooding to occur, move immediately to higher areas. During evacuation, bring only essential and important belonging and make sure that you leave your home secured. Turn off main switches and disconnect all electrical appliances. Avoid walking through moving water and driving into deep flooded areas. With the on-going flood crisis, people need to be always prepared. And to those who are not affected, provide support to people in flood impacted areas.
Read the related news about the Brisbane Flood here: https://journalweek.com/the-brisbane-flood/
