Jakarta: The devastating toll of flash floods and mudslides in Indonesia’s West Sumatra province continues to climb, with authorities confirming the death toll has now reached 52, while over 3,000 individuals have been forced to evacuate.
Triggered by torrential rainfall on Saturday evening, the natural disaster unleashed flash floods, landslides, and cold lava flows across three districts in West Sumatra. The cold lava flow, known locally as lahar, emanated from Mount Marapi, one of Sumatra’s most active volcanoes, exacerbating the calamity. This recent eruption marks a grim continuation of volcanic activity following a deadly eruption in December, which claimed over 20 lives.
According to West Sumatra disaster agency spokesman Ilham Wahab, of the 52 fatalities, more than 45 have been identified. Search and rescue operations, conducted by local responders, police, and military personnel, persist as 17 individuals remain missing.
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The aftermath of the disaster has left significant devastation in its wake, with 249 houses, 225 hectares (556 acres) of land – including vital rice fields – and major roadways in the affected districts suffering damage. While floodwaters have begun to recede since Sunday, the arduous task of clearing debris and mud from roadways and settlements lies ahead.
Ilham emphasized the urgent need to prioritize road clearance efforts alongside ongoing search operations. As of Tuesday, a total of 3,396 individuals have sought refuge in nearby buildings, as reported by Suharyanto, the head of the national disaster and management agency, BNPB.
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Despite relief efforts, distribution of aid has encountered obstacles due to impassable roads buried under mud and debris. Suharyanto highlighted the challenges faced in delivering essential supplies such as tents, blankets, food, hygiene kits, portable toilets, and water purifiers to affected communities.
The humanitarian response to the West Sumatra floods remains a critical endeavor as authorities and relief organizations work tirelessly to provide support to those affected by this devastating natural disaster.
