Authorities in Indonesia have declared a state of emergency in the North Sulawesi region following sudden flash floods that have killed at least 16 people, displaced hundreds, and left several others missing.
The severe flooding struck the Siau Tagulandang Biaro Islands after days of heavy rainfall caused rivers to overflow in the early hours of the week. Fast-moving water swept through communities, destroying homes, damaging infrastructure, and forcing widespread evacuations.
Emergency response teams are conducting search and rescue operations in affected areas, prioritizing the recovery of missing residents and providing support to displaced families. Local officials have mobilized resources and equipment to reach isolated villages where floodwaters caused significant destruction and blocked roads.
The government’s emergency declaration empowers local leaders to accelerate relief efforts, including the deployment of humanitarian aid, temporary shelters, and medical assistance for those injured. Hundreds of residents have been relocated to safer ground as authorities work to stabilize conditions and prevent further loss of life.
In addition to fatalities, dozens of people were reported injured, and the floodwaters have left many without access to essential services. The intense rain and resulting floods underscore the country’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, particularly in low-lying island regions where infrastructure may be less resilient.
Officials caution that the emergency response will continue as teams monitor rivers and terrain for further risks, including potential landslides. Residents are urged to stay alert and follow instructions from disaster management authorities as recovery operations advance.
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