Medan, North Sumatra, December 9, 2024 – Landslides and flash floods have caused widespread devastation in Indonesia’s North Sumatra region, particularly on Sumatra Island, following torrential rains over the weekend. At least 16 people have been confirmed dead, and 6 others remain missing as rescue teams continue their search efforts. These flash floods and mudslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, caused rivers to overflow and mountainside slopes to collapse, affecting multiple districts.
The most severely impacted areas include Semangat Gunung and South Tapanuli, where numerous homes were destroyed or swept away by the floods and debris. Emergency responders, including police, soldiers, and local volunteers, are working relentlessly to locate survivors and recover the bodies of those lost. While floodwaters have receded in some areas, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
In addition to the human toll, significant agricultural damage has been reported. Large tracts of farmland have been inundated, severely affecting local crops and livelihoods. The government and aid organizations are coordinating relief efforts, focusing on providing assistance to displaced families and restoring vital infrastructure.
