Heavy rains since mid-December have caused widespread flooding across Mozambique, particularly in the provinces of Gaza, Maputo, and Sofala. Several major river basins have risen above alert levels, leading to extensive inundation, displacement, and damage to communities as floodwaters persist and rainfall continues.

Tropical forests, often described as the planet’s “green lungs,” absorb vast quantities of carbon dioxide, release oxygen, and play a crucial role in regulating Earth’s climate. While widespread deforestation has long been recognised as a major threat, new research identifies a less obvious but highly significant driver of carbon emissions: small-scale forest clearing. Surprisingly, the removal of relatively small forest patches is responsible for more than half of net carbon losses across the tropical regions.

Overview of the Disaster and Objectives

From late November to early December 2025, Sri Lanka experienced its most severe flooding in decades following the passage of Cyclone Ditwah. The system brought prolonged and intense rainfall, triggering deadly landslides in the central hill country and widespread inundation across 25 districts. According to the Joint Rapid Needs Assessment (JRNA) released on 02 December, the disaster has resulted in catastrophic impacts with 410 confirmed fatalities and hundreds reported missing.

Overview of the Disaster and Objectives