At least 225 people have died and dozens are still unaccounted for following severe floods and landslides that struck three provinces on Sumatra island, Indonesia, earlier this week. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported the grim figures on Saturday, highlighting that the death toll may rise as rescue teams work to reach isolated communities affected by days of relentless rain.
Suharyanto, the head of BNPB, expressed concerns about the situation, stating, “There are still points we have not been able to enter. The data will continue to change.” North Sumatra emerged as the hardest-hit region, recording 116 deaths and 42 people missing. The heavy rainfall on steep terrain caused widespread landslides, destroying rural roads and hampering major transport routes.
In response to the disaster, the Indonesian government has mobilized additional troops and emergency personnel. Aircraft, heavy machinery, and a presidential aid package containing generators, communication equipment, and inflatable boats have been dispatched to assist in the ongoing relief efforts.
Impact on Local Communities
In Aceh, located at the northern tip of Sumatra, the disaster has resulted in 35 confirmed deaths, with an additional 25 people reported missing and eight injured. The authorities have evacuated over 4,800 households, establishing nearly 100 shelters in the coastal city of Lhokseumawe, which is the second-largest city in Aceh province. Flooding has also severely impacted the main transport corridor along Aceh’s eastern coast, including the failure of a critical bridge linking the provincial capital Banda Aceh to southern districts.
In West Sumatra, the disaster agency confirmed 74 deaths, with 12 missing and four injured. More than 3,900 households are currently taking refuge in temporary facilities. As forecasts predict further heavy rainfall, the government has initiated cloud-seeding flights aimed at mitigating the risk of additional landslides and flash floods. Road access remains limited, and debris continues to obstruct rescue operations.
Indonesia is known for experiencing some of the world’s most intense monsoon rains. Experts caution that extreme weather events are becoming increasingly frequent due to rising global temperatures. The government’s proactive measures and ongoing rescue efforts underscore the urgency of addressing the immediate needs of affected communities while preparing for the potential for further adverse weather conditions.
