According to the latest update, at least 37 people lost their lives in flash floods and mudslides that hit Indonesia’s West Sumatra province this weekend. It has also been learnt that around 17 are still missing, authorities said.
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Flash floods in Indonesia
On Saturday evening, torrential rain caused flash floods and landslides in three districts in West Sumatra province, Abdul Malik. It also led to the cold lava flow, also known as lahar in Indonesia. It is a mixture of volcanic ash, rock debris and water that flows like mud. This comes from Mount Marapi, one of Sumatra’s most active volcanoes.
As per reports, in December, over 20 people were killed after Marapi erupted. “The heavy rain swept materials such as ash and large rocks from the Marapi volcano,” said Abdul Malik.
“Cold lava flow and flash floods have always been threats to us recently. But the problem is, it always happens late at night until dawn,” he added.
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400 personnel deployed
According to locals, 400 personnel, which included local rescuers, police, and military, were on the spot to search for the missing people. They were also accompanied by eight excavators and drones.
Footage showed roads and rice fields covered by mud. A 43-year-old survivor recalled the floods came instantly. “The flooding was sudden and the river became blocked which resulted in the flow of water everywhere and it was out of control.”
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Sakchi Khandelwal, once an international correspondent, is renowned for her dedication to driving positive societal change through her journalistic endeavours. With over five years of diverse experience in both print and digital media, Khandelwal skillfully illuminates global issues.
