Flooding in Indonesia and Sri Lanka: How Tourists Are Affected by Severe Weather

Published on December 4, 2025

With forecasts of fresh rainfall in Indonesia and Sri Lanka, the flood-affected regions face the prospect of further destruction, adding to the devastation caused by recent floods. The travel industry has been severely affected, with reports of widespread damage to infrastructure, cancelled flights, and disruption to transport networks as the region struggles to cope with the aftermath of catastrophic weather conditions. More than a thousand people have lost their lives in the humanitarian crisis that has engulfed four countries, with wide implications for tourism in Southeast Asia.

Heavy Rains Threaten More Damage in Indonesia

Indonesia is facing a difficult situation as weather forecasts predict heavy rain for the provinces of Sumatra, one of the worst-hit regions in the country. The Indonesian Meteorological Agency warned of moderate to heavy rainfall between Thursday and Friday, raising fears that more flooding and landslides could occur. Although the rainfall has not yet matched the intensity of last week’s devastating downpours, authorities remain on high alert.

In North Sumatra, where much of the destruction occurred, survivors are still reeling from the aftermath. Sabandi, a 54-year-old woman sheltered in Pandan, described the trauma she faced as floods engulfed her home. “We feel scared,” she shared. “We are afraid that if it rains suddenly, the flood will come again.” Sabandi spent two days stranded on her roof without food or water, waiting for evacuation. The damage was so severe that her house was filled with mud several feet deep, making it impossible to enter.

The rising death toll in Indonesia currently stands at 776, though officials caution that this figure could increase as more information comes from remote areas. Over 560 people remain missing, and communication difficulties have slowed relief efforts. The intense flooding, especially in remote areas, has also disrupted transportation. Gas stations are running low on fuel, and long queues are forming in Banda Aceh, while survivors report food shortages and price gouging in some locations.

For travelers and tourists planning trips to Indonesia, these natural disasters present a significant challenge. Travel plans have been disrupted by road closures, flash floods, and landslides. In the worst-hit regions, tourists face difficulties in accessing accommodations and essential services due to widespread infrastructure damage.

Sri Lanka Faces Monsoon Rains and Landslide Risks

In Sri Lanka, the situation is similarly grim, with the arrival of the northeast monsoon raising further fears of landslides and flooding. The weather system is expected to bring more rain, putting additional pressure on already saturated areas. Forecasters have issued landslide warnings for the central region, urging residents and travelers to avoid returning to areas at risk of collapse. The saturated slopes of the mountainous areas are particularly vulnerable, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

The impact on tourism in Sri Lanka is equally profound, as many tourist destinations in the central and northeast regions remain submerged or inaccessible. The road connecting Colombo to Kandy, a popular route for travelers, has been temporarily reopened for limited hours while workers clear debris and repair damaged infrastructure. However, traffic remains slow as vehicles navigate through badly damaged roads, presenting a challenge for both locals and tourists trying to move between cities.

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, already recovering from the economic impact of past crises, faces another setback. The floodwaters have caused significant damage to local businesses, including tourism-related enterprises. Soma Wanniarachchi, a 69-year-old business owner, shared her shock after returning to find her catering rental business devastated by the floods. “My stainless steel utensils are now probably in the Indian Ocean,” she said, emphasizing the extent of the destruction.

The death toll in Sri Lanka has reached at least 479, with hundreds still missing. The nation, still grappling with its economic recovery following a severe crisis three years ago, is now facing the added challenge of rebuilding after widespread devastation. Authorities estimate that Sri Lanka will require up to $7 billion to repair homes, roads, and industries—an enormous financial burden for a country already struggling economically.

Impact of Climate Change on Travel and Tourism

The recent flooding in Indonesia and Sri Lanka underscores the growing unpredictability of seasonal monsoons, exacerbated by climate change. While monsoons have traditionally been a part of the region’s weather patterns, the intensity and frequency of these events have increased, resulting in more severe flooding, landslides, and destruction. The tourism industry, which relies heavily on stable weather conditions for activities such as sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and cultural tours, is particularly vulnerable to these unpredictable weather events.

In both Indonesia and Sri Lanka, travelers are facing disruptions to their itineraries as flights are canceled or delayed, transportation links are severed, and accommodations in affected areas are rendered uninhabitable. Popular tourist destinations like Bali, Jakarta, Colombo, and Kandy are not immune to the effects of the monsoons, and many tourists are being forced to change their travel plans or cut short their visits.

For tourists looking to visit Southeast Asia, it’s crucial to be aware of the seasonal weather patterns and the risks posed by extreme weather events. Travel insurance and contingency plans are essential for anyone planning to visit flood-prone regions, as the frequency of monsoon-related disruptions continues to rise.

Travel Industry Responds to Crisis

The tourism and travel industry in both Indonesia and Sri Lanka is working to address the immediate needs of stranded travelers while also coordinating with local authorities on recovery efforts. In Indonesia, airlines and tour operators are offering refunds and alternative travel arrangements for tourists affected by the floods. Similarly, Sri Lanka’s tourism board has issued advisories and is working with international partners to ensure tourists are safe and informed about the current situation.

In both countries, local tourism operators are bracing for a slowdown in international visitors. However, both Indonesia and Sri Lanka are also known for their resilience and ability to rebuild after natural disasters. In the long term, the tourism sectors in these countries will likely recover, but travelers should monitor the situation closely and plan their trips accordingly.

A Call for International Support

Indonesia and Sri Lanka face enormous challenges in the aftermath of catastrophic flooding. Both countries have called for international aid and support as they seek to recover, particularly as they grapple with economic and social impacts from climate change-fueled disasters. To travelers, it means this: While Southeast Asia remains a fascinating and vibrant destination, travelers need to stay informed about local conditions and be prepared for flexibility in any travel plans that touch on areas affected by extreme weather.

As the Philippines and Vietnam rebuild their respective communities, tourism will undoubtedly be part of their development strategy. However, travelers must understand the continued risks due to climate change and adjust expectations and plans accordingly in preparation for safe and responsible travel to these beautiful yet susceptible destinations.