Torrential monsoon rain combined with two tropical cyclones last week resulted in deadly floods across Sri Lanka and parts of Indonesia, southern Thailand and northern Malaysia.
More than 1,200 people have died and hundreds are missing. In Sri Lanka, the death toll has risen sharply to at least 355 on Monday, officials said. About 370 people are missing. Cyclone Ditwah, which reached Sri Lanka on Friday, was forecast to bring heavy rain to parts of southern India on Monday.
In Indonesia, the storm has left at least 600 people dead with more than 400 are missing, while Thailand’s death toll has passed 170.
Here are satellite images that show the effect of Cyclone Ditwah on those countries:
The picture above shows the Indonesian city of Padang Pariaman on June 26, and then again on November 29 after the storm struck the island of Sumatra.
A view of the North Aceh Regency, referred to as Aceh Utara, on September 6, and again on November 30 after the cyclone hit.
The Indonesian city of Padang and surrounding areas on June 26, above, and again on November 29.
The Kaduwela area of the Sri Lankan capital Colombo on February 21, and then a picture following flooding in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah on November 30.
The specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo
Power: 261hp at 5,500rpm
Torque: 405Nm at 1,750-3,500rpm
Transmission: 9-speed auto
Fuel consumption: 6.9L/100km
On sale: Now
Price: From Dh117,059
Formula Middle East Calendar (Formula Regional and Formula 4)
Round 1: January 17-19, Yas Marina Circuit – Abu Dhabi
Round 2: January 22-23, Yas Marina Circuit – Abu Dhabi
Round 3: February 7-9, Dubai Autodrome – Dubai
Round 4: February 14-16, Yas Marina Circuit – Abu Dhabi
Round 5: February 25-27, Jeddah Corniche Circuit – Saudi Arabia
Financial considerations before buying a property
Buyers should try to pay as much in cash as possible for a property, limiting the mortgage value to as little as they can afford. This means they not only pay less in interest but their monthly costs are also reduced. Ideally, the monthly mortgage payment should not exceed 20 per cent of the purchaser’s total household income, says Carol Glynn, founder of Conscious Finance Coaching.
“If it’s a rental property, plan for the property to have periods when it does not have a tenant. Ensure you have enough cash set aside to pay the mortgage and other costs during these periods, ideally at least six months,” she says.
Also, shop around for the best mortgage interest rate. Understand the terms and conditions, especially what happens after any introductory periods, Ms Glynn adds.
Using a good mortgage broker is worth the investment to obtain the best rate available for a buyer’s needs and circumstances. A good mortgage broker will help the buyer understand the terms and conditions of the mortgage and make the purchasing process efficient and easier.
Red flags
- Promises of high, fixed or 'guaranteed' returns.
- Unregulated structured products or complex investments often used to bypass traditional safeguards.
- Lack of clear information, vague language, no access to audited financials.
- Overseas companies targeting investors in other jurisdictions - this can make legal recovery difficult.
- Hard-selling tactics - creating urgency, offering 'exclusive' deals.
Courtesy: Carol Glynn, founder of Conscious Finance Coaching
What vitamins do we know are beneficial for living in the UAE
Vitamin D: Highly relevant in the UAE due to limited sun exposure; supports bone health, immunity and mood.
Vitamin B12: Important for nerve health and energy production, especially for vegetarians, vegans and individuals with absorption issues.
Iron: Useful only when deficiency or anaemia is confirmed; helps reduce fatigue and support immunity.
Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Supports heart health and reduces inflammation, especially for those who consume little fish.
