Flash floods and cold lava flow from a volcano in western Indonesia have resulted in 41 deaths and 17 people missing, as reported by a local disaster agency official. The incident occurred due to heavy rainfall causing volcanic rocks to roll down one of Indonesia’s most active volcanos into two districts on Sumatra island. Rescuers are currently searching for the missing individuals in the worst-hit areas of Agam district and Tanah Datar.
The bodies of the victims that have been retrieved so far include two children – a three-year-old and an eight-year-old. In light of the situation, authorities are encouraging people to evacuate to safer places such as relatives’ homes rather than tent shelters, especially during heavy rains. The focus is on searching and rescuing victims, as well as protecting and assisting evacuees, particularly those who are vulnerable in these challenging circumstances.
In response to the disaster, around 130 people have evacuated to an elementary school in Agam, while more than 2,000 individuals have been evacuated to various locations in Tanah Datar. The flooding has caused extensive damage in the affected areas, with roads turned into rivers and mosques and houses being impacted. Additionally, volcanic ash and large rocks have descended from Mount Marapi as a result of the heavy rains and subsequent flooding.
Cold lava, also called lahar, is composed of volcanic materials like ash, sand, and pebbles that are carried down a volcano’s slopes by rain. In this situation, the cold lava flow has added to the devastation caused by the flash floods, exacerbating the impact on the affected communities. The government and local agencies are working diligently to search for missing persons, provide assistance to evacuees, and address the aftermath of the natural disaster.
The West Sumatra Governor has emphasized the importance of taking immediate action to address the needs of those affected by the flash floods and cold lava flow. As rescue efforts continue and the extent of the damage is assessed, it is crucial for authorities to provide support to the affected communities and ensure their safety and well-being. With the number of casualties rising and more individuals still missing, ongoing efforts are essential to mitigate the impact of the disaster and assist those in need of aid.
