Philippines — Super typhoons and flooding | Southeast Asia

In 2025, the Philippines endured another punishing typhoon season as warmer ocean waters intensified storms across the western Pacific. Several super typhoons made landfall within months, unleashing torrential rains, storm surges and widespread flooding. Coastal and low-lying communities were repeatedly displaced, while damage to crops, homes and transport networks accumulated with each successive storm. Authorities warned that recovery time between disasters is shrinking, leaving millions more exposed. Climate scientists continue to link the growing intensity of typhoons to rising sea surface temperatures driven by global warming.

Mexico — Floods and landslides | Latin America

Severe flooding and landslides struck parts of Mexico in late 2025 after days of relentless rainfall overwhelmed rivers and hillsides. Entire neighbourhoods were submerged as infrastructure collapsed, particularly in regions already affected by deforestation and rapid urban expansion. Emergency services struggled to reach isolated communities as roads and bridges were washed away. The disaster once again highlighted how climate change is amplifying rainfall extremes across Latin America. For many vulnerable communities, the impacts were worsened by long-standing social and economic inequalities.

Nigeria — Flash floods | West Africa

In late May, torrential rains along the Kaduna River triggered devastating flash floods in Nigeria’s Niger State. Villages around Mokwa and Minna were inundated within minutes, killing at least 151 people and displacing thousands more. Hundreds of homes were destroyed, while farmland and transport links were severely damaged. Beyond the immediate death toll, the floods wiped out crops during a critical agricultural period, threatening local food supplies. Relief agencies described the disaster as one of the worst flooding events Nigeria has seen in decades.

Nepal — Glacial lake outburst flood | South Asia

A sudden glacial lake outburst on the Nepal–China border in July sent a wall of water down the Bhote Koshi river, devastating border communities. The flood destroyed major bridges and hydropower facilities, killing dozens and leaving others missing on both sides of the frontier. Nearly eight per cent of Nepal’s electricity generation capacity was knocked offline overnight. Scientists pointed to accelerating glacial melt in the Himalayas as a key driver of the disaster. The event underscored the growing risks climate change poses to high-mountain regions.

India — Monsoon floods and landslides | South Asia

India’s northeastern states faced deadly floods and landslides in June as unusually intense monsoon rains overwhelmed rivers and unstable terrain. Assam, Manipur and Meghalaya were among the worst affected, with dozens killed and thousands forced into shelters. Entire districts were cut off as roads collapsed and communication lines failed. While monsoons are a seasonal reality, experts warned that climate change is making rainfall more erratic and destructive. The disaster exposed the fragile infrastructure of one of India’s most climate-vulnerable regions.

South Africa — Unseasonal flooding | Southern Africa

In May, heavy rainfall from an unseasonal cold-front system triggered deadly flooding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province. Rivers burst their banks, sweeping away homes, schools and vehicles. At least 49 people were killed, including schoolchildren whose bus was caught in floodwaters near Mthatha. Authorities declared a national disaster as emergency crews struggled to reach submerged communities. Climate specialists noted that shifting weather patterns are making extreme rainfall events more frequent, even outside traditional wet seasons.

Brazil — Wildfires in the Amazon | South America

The Amazon basin experienced a surge in wildfires during 2025 as prolonged drought and record temperatures dried out vast stretches of rainforest. Fires spread rapidly across Brazil ’s northern states, destroying ecosystems, displacing Indigenous communities and releasing massive amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. Smoke from the blazes darkened skies hundreds of kilometres away, triggering health warnings in major cities. Scientists warned that climate change, combined with deforestation, is pushing the rainforest closer to a tipping point. The fires reinforced fears that the Amazon is losing its ability to act as a global carbon sink.

Argentina and Chile — Drought-driven fires | South America

Across the Southern Cone, extended drought conditions fuelled one of the most severe wildfire seasons in recent years. In Argentina and Chile, parched grasslands and forests ignited easily, allowing fires to spread across millions of hectares. Rural communities were forced to evacuate as livestock, crops and infrastructure were destroyed. Air pollution from the fires also affected urban centres, compounding public health risks. Climate change has lengthened fire seasons in the region, leaving authorities struggling to keep pace.

Horn of Africa — Drought and hunger | East Africa

In the Horn of Africa, prolonged drought conditions continued to drive severe food insecurity throughout 2025. Successive failed rainy seasons in Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya devastated harvests and livestock, eroding livelihoods across rural areas. Millions faced crisis-level hunger as water sources dried up and food prices surged. While not always officially declared as a famine, humanitarian agencies warned that conditions resembled past hunger emergencies. Climate change has intensified drought cycles in the region, magnifying the risks for already vulnerable populations.

Southern Africa — Crop failures and food stress | Southern Africa

Large parts of Southern Africa entered 2025 grappling with the aftershocks of drought and extreme heat that reduced crop yields and strained water supplies. Countries such as Zambia and Malawi reported poor maize harvests, pushing more households towards food assistance. Climate-driven heat stress disrupted planting cycles and reduced agricultural productivity. As rural incomes fell, food insecurity deepened across the region. The crisis illustrated how climate change can quietly undermine food systems long before famine is officially declared.

Footage filmed by Viory shows local tour guide and environmental advocate Bonifacio Jomio snorkelling through the reef, searching for the starfish before injecting them with coconut vinegar. The method, carried out by hand, is part of a local effort to slow the damage and protect what remains of the coral ecosystem.

Jomio said the reefs were in far better condition before Typhoon Odette, internationally known as Rai. Since then, he explained, growing corals have increasingly been eaten and killed, prompting him to act in order to support both the marine environment and the coastal community that depends on it.

He described the use of coconut vinegar as a crucial alternative to chemical solutions. According to Jomio, the organic substance is fatal to the Crown-of-Thorns Starfish but does not harm other marine species, allowing interventions to be carried out without further damaging the reef.

Restoring coral reefs is essential for sustaining fish populations, Jomio said, as healthy corals provide breeding grounds for many species. He noted that the recovery process is slow, making protection efforts all the more urgent.

Despite the challenges, Jomio said his work is driven by a desire to preserve the reefs for future generations. His actions have attracted attention online, drawing praise from viewers while also prompting calls for wider institutional support to address the scale of the crisis.

Not long after Kalmaegi exited the Philippine area of responsibility, Fung Wong emerged, which eventually developed into a super typhoon. Its effects on the Philippines were more subdued, though two were still reported dead, while half a million were displaced. 

Due to the extent of the typhoons, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a 1-year state of national calamity for the country. Prices of essential products have also been put on freeze.

Situated beside the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines experiences an average of 20 tropical cyclones annually. It also sits on the so-called Ring of Fire, making it prone to seismic and volcanic activity. 

“Whatever ‘typhoon’ we face in our married life, we’ll overcome it together,” Jamaica said, smiling after the ceremony. “When I heard the sermon, I didn’t even feel like we were standing in floodwaters.”

Jade shared that the unexpected conditions only made their vows feel more meaningful. “For me, it’s like God accepted our love. I believe we’ll be even stronger after this.”

The two have been together for over a decade, and while nature had other plans for their big day, they embraced it with grace and gratitude. “God surprised us,” Jamaica said. “And honestly, I think our wedding turned out even better this way.”

They’ve postponed their honeymoon trip to Vigan due to ongoing storm activity, but they’re taking everything in stride — just like they did on their wedding day.

Typhoon Whipha has left at least 19 people dead, 11 missing, and forced over 46,900 families into evacuation centres across the country.

But for one couple, the storm became part of a story they’ll tell for the rest of their lives.

The World Risk Report 2024 has identified the top 10 countries most vulnerable to natural disasters, considering exposure, vulnerability, and susceptibility to extreme natural events like earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, and drought.

According to the report, the top 10 countries with the highest disaster risk are:​

Philippines : With a WorldRiskIndex (WRI) score of 46.91, the Philippines faces significant exposure to natural hazards such as typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. The country's archipelagic nature and socio-economic vulnerabilities contribute to its high disaster risk. ​

Indonesia : With a WRI score of 41.13, Indonesia's position along the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it susceptible to earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity. The country's high population density in hazard-prone areas amplifies the risk. ​

India : With a WRI of 40.96, India is vulnerable to diverse natural hazards, including floods, cyclones, and earthquakes. Rapid urbanisation and socio-economic disparities add to its vulnerability. ​

Colombia : With a WRI of 37.81, Colombia is prone to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods. Its varied topography and socio-political factors influence its vulnerability. ​

Mexico : Mexico's WRI score of 35.93 reflects its exposure to earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcanic activity. Urbanization in high-risk zones and socio-economic challenges contribute to its disaster risk. ​

Myanmar : Scoring 35.85 on the WRI, Myanmar faces risks from cyclones, floods, and earthquakes. Limited infrastructure and socio-economic challenges heighten its susceptibility. ​

Mozambique : With a WRI of 34.44, Mozambique is vulnerable to cyclones, floods, and droughts. Socio-economic factors and inadequate infrastructure contribute to its high disaster risk. ​

The CAAV stated that Phu Bai International Airport in Thua Thien-Hue will close from 6 am to 10 pm local time, Dong Hoi Airport in Quang Binh from 6 am to 7 pm, Da Nang International Airport from 6 am to 4 am the following day, and Chu Lai Airport in Quang Nam from 10 am to 10 am the next day.

Vietnam Air Traffic Management has notified flights ahead of these temporary closures, local reports say.

The typhoon is forecasted to bring up to 700 mm of rainfall across areas from Quang Binh to Quang Ngai from October 26 to 28.

Typhoon Trami has already caused significant damage in the Philippines, affecting thousands and leaving at least 76 people dead.

The Dominican Republic ranks first, with a risk index of 10, closely followed by the Philippines (9.3) and Japan (9.2). These regions are particularly vulnerable due to their location, population density, and geography.



However, besides a general definition of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and low-pressure centres, there are several types of tropical cyclones, such as hurricanes and typhoons, which usually impact different regions worldwide.

Hurricanes occur in the North Atlantic & Eastern Pacific (impacting the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and SE USA). In contrast, typhoons occur in the Northwestern Pacific (affecting countries like Japan, China, Taiwan, and the Philippines). Cyclones tend to impact the Indian Ocean & South Pacific (impacting areas like India and Australia).

While South Korea only ranks 6th on the list with an 8.3 score, Japan is on top because of its unique geographical location. Its location in the northwestern Pacific, coupled with warm ocean waters and complex atmospheric patterns, makes it a hotspot for typhoons.

However, climate change could be one of the reasons behind it. Research from the Climate Council reveals that the growing temperature may strengthen tropical cyclones, resulting in stronger wind speed and move slower. For instance, Tropical Cyclone Yasa caused massive damage to Fiji’s northern island of Vanus Levu in December 2020.

Thailand's digital economy, Google has announced a $1 billion investment to establish a data centre and cloud region in capital Bangkok and Chonburi, located in eastern Thailand. This development aims to bolster the country's digital infrastructure but is projected to boost Thailand's GDP by around $4 billion by 2029, alongside the creation of approximately 14,000 jobs annually from 2025 to 2029. Integral to this investment is a recent collaboration with the Royal Thai Government focused on responsible AI adoption and skills development, with an ambitious goal to train 150,000 Thais by 2026.

Typhoon Yagi forces electrocution of 125 crocodiles

In Thailand, Typhoon Yagi presented a dire situation for crocodile farmer Natthapak Khumkad, who had to make the difficult decision to electrocute 125 critically endangered Siamese crocodiles to prevent them from escaping into the local community after extensive damage to his farm. This decision, made within a 24-hour timeframe, underscores the balance between wildlife conservation and community safety. With a total of 500 baby crocodiles still on his farm, Khumkad continues his 17-year legacy, now also engaging in leather and meat production to sustain his business amid such adversity.

Improvements in household debt management

Thailand has seen recent improvements in household debt management, as reflected in a slight decline in the debt-to-GDP ratio to 89.6% in Q2 from 90.7% in Q1. This decrease comes amid a backdrop of tightened bank lending and heightened borrower repayments spurred by the highest interest rates in a decade. Total household liabilities have experienced a modest drop, highlighting an area of personal consumption and mortgage-related debts that remains critical. In response, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra advocates for an all-encompassing debt restructuring plan to assist 14.5 million low-income citizens, BNN Bloomberg reports.

$14 billion stimulus plan

The Thai government has introduced a substantial $14 billion stimulus plan aimed at distributing 10,000 baht (approximately $309.22 ) to 45 million citizens, prioritising social welfare cardholders and disabled individuals in its first phase. The programme will be facilitated through a smartphone application to enhance local spending within a six-month timeframe. Although criticisms regarding fiscal responsibility have surfaced, the initiative aspires to underpin domestic consumption and drive the transition towards a cashless economy by 2024, promoting financial services that are open, inclusive, and resilient, Thailand Business News reports.

Extradition of Vietnamese activist

A Vietnamese activist faces extradition from Thailand. Y Quynh Bdap, co-founder of Montagnards Stand for Justice, was detained following a conviction in absentia related to anti-government protests that resulted in fatalities. Despite critiques from rights groups concerned for his safety, the Thai court's decision to extradite reflects ongoing tensions between political dissent and state obligations. According to AP News , advocates continue to call for the Thai government to exercise discretion to uphold human rights and safeguard vulnerable populations.

The United States and Vietnam continue to strengthen their diplomatic and military relations through mutual assistance and collaboration. Recently, the U.S. Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) extended its appreciation to Vietnam for its instrumental role in locating the remains of U.S. Marine Corps Captain Ronald W. Forrester, who was declared missing in action 52 years ago during the Vietnam War, Tuoi Tre News reports. The identification of his remains, achieved through circumstantial evidence and mitochondrial DNA analysis, is pivotal in the ongoing efforts that have seen Vietnam help identify and repatriate over 1,000 sets of remains since the Paris Peace Accords in 1973.

German-Vietnam ties

In a bid to enhance diplomatic ties further, Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính of Vietnam welcomed the newly-appointed German Ambassador to Việt Nam, Helga Margarete, on September 27, 2023. The Prime Minister remarked on the robust development of Việtnam-German relations, particularly in light of high-profile visits by German leaders. He proposed celebratory joint initiatives for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025 and highlighted the significance of cooperation under the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement. According to Vietnam News , the Ambassador committed to bolstering bilateral relations, especially in education and climate change, while both parties reiterated the importance of resolving regional disputes in accordance with international law.

Typhoon

Typhoon Yagi has wreaked havoc across northern Vietnam, marking a significant disaster with estimated damages soaring to $4.8 billion. As the strongest storm in Asia this year, the typhoon has resulted in 299 fatalities and 34 individuals reported missing, Lismore City News reports. Critical infrastructure, including factories and farmland, has suffered devastating impacts, raising concerns about Vietnam's economic growth forecast for 2024. Following the typhoon, the agriculture sector is experiencing inflation in pig prices, as flooding has disrupted farms, which in turn may pose challenges to financial institutions due to anticipated government debt relief measures.

Vietnam, Cuba renew long-standing friendship ties

Recent high-level discussions between Vietnam and Cuba have led to the reinforcement of their longstanding friendship, Vietnam News reports. Following a state visit by the General Secretary and President Tô Lâm from September 25-27, a joint statement was made emphasising the commitment to enhance exchanges across various sectors including agriculture, healthcare, and technology. A noteworthy declaration made during this visit was the establishment of 2025 as the 'Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Year', coinciding with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations, signifying a pivotal moment for cooperation and mutual support on international matters.

Vietnam-India cooperation

The recent 5th annual dialogue between the Việt Nam Academy of Social Sciences and the Indian Council of World Affairs, held in Hà Nội on September 27, sought to improve the efficiency of Việt Nam-India cooperation amid evolving global dynamics. According to Vietnam News , the dialogue underscored the necessity for routine information exchanges to fully realise the potential of their comprehensive strategic partnership. Discussions led by Indian Ambassador Soumen Bagchi highlighted the historical connections and the opportunities presented by recent shifts in leadership, particularly in areas including trade, technology, and defence.

"There is a lot of damage. The branches hit each other and broke. After the rain, there was flooding. The river rose, submerged everything, and the trees died. During the storm, we propped the trees back up. The next day, they were flooded again. This year, it's a total loss. No harvest," she said.

Do Thi Hoa, further counting her losses shared with AFP "It’s heartbreaking because I’ve put in so much effort since the beginning of the year. Money for pesticides and labour. So much money was spent with the hope of a harvest by the end of the year. Now, with this loss, everyone in the village is worried. "

Beyond the destruction of the farms, the human cost of Typhoon Yagi is equally tragic. As of Friday, September 13, 233 people have been reported dead with many more injured or missing.