JAKARTA: A flash flood struck Simangulampe village in Sumatra’s Baktiraja subdistrict late last night, leaving at least 12 people missing and one person severely injured.
According to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), approximately 50 families were forced to evacuate after their homes were damaged by the flood.
The disaster in Humbang Hasundutan district unfolded after prolonged heavy rainfall, triggering a flood carrying large boulders, tree trunks, branches, and a mixture of mud and water.
BNPB spokesman Abdul Muhari in a statement said 12 houses, including a place of worship, a school, and approximately five hectares of agricultural land had been severely damaged and submerged.
Local agencies responded swiftly, establishing temporary shelters and conducting search operations using excavators to move large rocks, and performed a comprehensive clean-up.
“Residents along rivers and cliffs are advised to consider temporary self-evacuation if heavy rain persists for over an hour,” he stated.
Indonesian meteorology agency BMKG earlier issued a weather warning for Humbang Hasundutan district, predicting potential moderate to heavy rain accompanied by lightning and strong winds until Monday.
