Flash floods and mudslides in Indonesia’s West Sumatra province have resulted in 52 deaths and the evacuation of over 3,000 people. The disaster was caused by torrential rain triggering flash floods, landslides, and cold lava flow, a result of volcanic activity from Mount Marapi, one of Sumatra’s most active volcanoes. The death toll steadily increased from 43 on Monday to 52 on Tuesday, with more than 45 of the deceased identified. Local authorities are still searching for 17 missing individuals.
The West Sumatra disaster agency reported extensive damage to 249 houses, 225 hectares of land, including rice fields, and major roads in the affected districts. The floods, which have since receded, left mud, logs, and large rocks on roads and settlements, requiring a cleanup effort. In addition to searching for missing persons, authorities are prioritizing the clearing of roads from debris to facilitate relief efforts. Despite the challenges caused by impassable roads, the evacuation of 3,396 people to nearby buildings has been successfully carried out.
The head of the national disaster and management agency revealed the distribution of emergency supplies such as tents, blankets, food, hygiene kits, portable toilets, and water purifiers to the affected population. However, the delivery of aid has been hindered by the conditions of the roads covered with mud and debris. The efforts to provide relief and assistance to the displaced individuals will continue as the full extent of the damage is assessed and the cleanup process progresses. The focus remains on assisting those affected by the natural disaster and ensuring their safety and well-being.
