Flash floods, landslides claim 20 lives in Indonesia
A devastating series of flash floods and landslides in Indonesia's North Sumatra province has claimed 20 lives following torrential rains, November 23, 2024. Search and rescue operations are ongoing as authorities continue to look for seven people still missing.
The disaster has affected multiple districts, with Karo district experiencing the highest death toll of 10 victims. Additional casualties were reported in Padang Lawas, Tapanuli Selatan, and Deli Serdang districts.
Lieutenant Colonel Ahmad Afriyan Rangkuti is coordinating the rescue operations, with teams conducting searches through mud and debris. The disaster agency spokesman, Abdul Muhari, confirmed that five previously missing individuals were found deceased under mud and debris in Karo district.
Juspri Nadeak, disaster chief in Karo district, expressed concern about possible unreported victims, noting that the affected area includes access to hot springs frequently visited by tourists. In Deli Serdang district, where four deaths have been confirmed and two people remain missing, rescue efforts are hampered by power outages and poor communication infrastructure.
The situation is particularly challenging for rescuers, who are facing difficulties with communication due to electrical outages and lack of cellular reception. Heavy equipment has been deployed to clear debris and assist in the search operations.
This disaster is part of a series of extreme weather events affecting Indonesia, which experts attribute to climate change. Earlier this year in May, the country experienced another tragic incident when the eruption of Mount Merapi in West Sumatra led to flash floods that killed at least 67 people.
Indonesia is particularly vulnerable to landslides during the rainy season, with risks often heightened by deforestation and illegal small-scale mining activities in remote areas. Local authorities continue their efforts to clean up affected areas while remaining vigilant for potential additional victims.
