JAKARTA – A devastating flash flood and landslide in Indonesia’s North Sulawesi province has claimed 16 lives, with three people still missing, according to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB).
The disaster struck early Monday around 2:30 a.m. local time in the Sitaro Islands Regency after hours of relentless heavy rain caused rivers to swell and overflow. BNPB reports that at least 148 homes across four districts were affected, including seven completely destroyed, 29 severely damaged, and 112 partially impacted.
By Monday afternoon, floodwaters had receded, but power and telecommunications services remain disrupted in the hardest-hit areas. In a press release issued Tuesday afternoon, Abdul Muhari, head of BNPB’s Data and Information Center, revealed that 22 people were injured and receiving treatment at nearby health centers. Approximately 682 individuals are currently sheltered in temporary relief camps.
Residents from affected zones have been relocated to safer locations. Initial figures indicate 35 families, totaling 108 people, have been displaced. Five homes were swept away entirely, and road connections between East Siau and South East Siau sub-districts have been severed.
Flash floods and landslides are common during Indonesia’s rainy season. Local authorities have declared a 14-day emergency response period from January 5 to 18, urging residents to stay vigilant amid worsening weather conditions. Rescue operations continue as teams search for the missing amid ongoing risks.