Rescue teams are racing against time after flash floods and landslides struck North Sumatra, Indonesia, leaving 49 people dead and 67 missing. Heavy monsoon rains caused rivers to overflow, triggering landslides that swept away homes and entire villages, leaving thousands displaced.
Rains cause widespread destruction
The extreme weather hit areas including South Tapanuli, Sibolga, Central Tapanuli, Pakpak Bharat and Humbang Hasundutan. Over 2,000 houses were submerged, bridges and roads damaged, and around 5,000 people forced to evacuate to temporary shelters.
Authorities warned that the death toll could rise as many areas remain cut off due to debris and ongoing rainfall. Landslides and strong currents have complicated rescue efforts.
Massive search and rescue operations
National disaster agency teams, local police, and volunteers are combing rivers, villages, and debris-strewn hillsides using boats, cutters, and hand tools. In Sibolga city, several residents were rescued from rooftops and flooded homes.
Authorities have urged communities to remain vigilant as forecasts indicate continued heavy rainfall in the coming days.
Regional impact and response
Flooding has spread beyond North Sumatra to West Sumatra and Aceh, forcing more evacuations and disrupting daily life. The Meteorology agency has suggested measures like controlled cloud-seeding in other areas to reduce further rainfall over affected zones.
Next steps: relief and long-term planning
Immediate priorities include rescue, rehabilitation, and providing food, water, and medical aid to survivors. Authorities are also assessing infrastructure damage and planning long-term disaster preparedness to mitigate future risks.