Indonesia finds itself caught up in its worst natural disaster as overflowing floods and landslides wreak havoc on the provinces in northern Sumatra. The scale of damage brought about by this natural calamity has left hundreds of people missing and millions displaced in no less than three provinces. Efforts to access some of these cut-off areas by rescue teams go to no avail as more bodies continue to be reported.
Flash floods wreak havoc in the provinces of Sumatra
Deadly floods and landslides were witnessed in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra towards the end of November. A total of 776 deaths were confirmed, with 564 individuals reported missing. Indonesia’s disaster relief agency has reported that this hydrometeorological disaster has left a major displacement of its population. The data indicates 1.5 million in Aceh, 538,000 in North Sumatra, and 106,200 in West Sumatra.
A total of 10,400 homes have been destroyed or damaged in 50 affected districts and municipalities. Also destroyed were 354 public facilities, 132 places of worship, nine health facilities, and 100 government structures. Additionally, in the education infrastructures, 213 schools had been affected. Nevertheless, 295 bridges had been affected, with most being impassable. Additionally, 2,600 other residents had suffered injuries due to the disasters.
Agam district experiences the heaviest losses of life due to flash floodwaters
Agam district in West Sumatra suffered the most, with 147 deaths due to the swift floodwaters containing wood and mud that gave little time for residents to evacuate. There were 112 fatalities recorded in Aceh Utara due to fast-moving floodwaters that engulfed communities along several rivers. Tapanuli Tengah in North Sumatra had 86 deaths with disrupted rescue and relief efforts because of broken bridges and roads.
Search and rescue efforts are ongoing amidst challenging conditions
The number of deaths in North Sumatra was 299, while in Aceh, 277 deaths were reported. In West Sumatra, 200 deaths were recorded. The search and rescue work continues. BNPB, as well as other search and rescue agencies such as the National Search and Rescue Agency and Indonesia’s National Police, have assembled joint teams for faster response. Additionally, environmental damage assessments are being made. This may have contributed to the effects of the disaster.
Video documentation conveys well the frightening power exerted by floodwaters when concrete houses were swept away by huge torrents that were a testimony to the unlimited power of nature.
The flooding footage going around gives a glimpse into the horrific conditions where cars were being tossed around like toys in strong currents, substantiating the level of danger residents were left with little time to prepare for. This disaster serves as a wake-up call for disaster preparedness and protection policies.
National relief operations are underway to help affected communities
The JNE logistics company has made free delivery available for relief boxes destined for areas hit by Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. This means that humanitarian aid does not face any delivery hassles. Residents are allowed to donate relief boxes with a maximum weight of 10kg to specially designated disaster command points in the hit areas. This program allows those in Indonesia to translate their kindness into practical help for those who have lost everything as a consequence of the devastating flooding.
Essential relief supplies needed:
Medical & Baby Care: Infant formula, baby food, diapers, basic medicines
Food Items: Rice, canned goods, noodles, biscuits
Hygiene Products: Soap, toothpaste, sanitary pads, towels
Clothing & Bedding: Clean clothing, blankets, sleeping mats
The Sumatra flooding can be considered Indonesia’s most severe natural disaster in recent years. This climate-related event has taken more than 800 lives, with millions left displaced in the three affected provinces. This particular disaster draws attention to several issues concerning disaster preparedness and response that must be considered for future prevention. While rescue aid continues, attention has shifted towards planning for future disasters due to climate change.
