Climate disasters in Asia increase, Oxfam doubles humanitarian responses

Climate disasters in Asia have forced Oxfam humanitarian teams and its partners to double their response efforts this year compared to the same period last year.

Following the severe monsoon rains and storms across the region, Oxfam teams and partners in Bangladesh, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Myanmar are on the ground providing humanitarian assistance to communities.

“Last year, climate disasters hit 6.73 million people in three countries where Oxfam operates. This year, that number jumped to 10.93 million across four countries—a 63% rise. This dramatic increase is a clear warning sign that climate disasters are not only becoming more frequent but are also spreading to new regions. It’s a wake-up call for us to prepare for an uncertain future,” said Jermaine Baltazar Bayas, Asia Humanitarian Lead at Oxfam.

On 7 September, Typhoon Yagi, the most powerful storm to hit Asia this year, killed hundreds of people and displaced thousands of others in Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand, and Lao PDR.

In Vietnam, more than a fifth of the country — around 19 million people are affected, with an estimated 10% expected in need of humanitarian assistance.

“Typhoon Yagi is the worst storm Vietnam has seen in thirty years. Oxfam is providing emergency food support, clean water and hygiene kits for families, schools, and communities. In the coming months, we will focus on rebuilding farms, repairing roads and irrigation systems. We are working to address the needs of the community, with focus on women and vulnerable groups,” said Vu Thi Quynh Hoa, Oxfam in Vietnam’s National Director.

In Myanmar, UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimates that 631,000 people might have been affected by flooding across the country. Multiple reports indicate that hundreds of people have died, with many more missing.

In Lao PDR, heavy rains and flooding have severely impacted northern and central provinces, with nearly 140,000 people affected.

According to the 2024 World Risk Report, the Philippines remains the most at-risk country for climate-related disasters, followed by Indonesia and India. Since July, heavy rainfall brought by the southwest monsoon and several typhoons have triggered flash floods and landslides that have displaced millions across several regions in the Philippines.

In Bangladesh, rains and flash floods since August 2024 have impacted over 5.82 million people. Oxfam in Bangladesh has been on the ground providing immediate emergency support, including clean water, dry food, ORS, water purifications, and mobile charging stations.

“Carbon-hungry lifestyles and investments in polluting industries is driving global warming. Asia is paying the price for the unequal impact of climate crisis. People have lost their jobs; children are forced to stay out of school, and we are seeing inequalities deepen within countries. Climate and inequality crisis is connected, and governments can tackle the twin crises. We need policies that target the excessive emissions of the super-rich, and commitment to invest in public services and fulfilling climate goals,” said Jermaine Baltazar Bayas, Asia Humanitarian Lead at Oxfam.

For interviews or more information, please contact Himanshi.matta@oxfam.org