Flash Flood In Indonesia's North Sumatra Leaves 10 Injured

By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar

JAKARTA, Dec 19 (Bernama) -- A flash flood in Tapanuli Selatan district, North Sumatra province, on Wednesday evening injured at least 10 people, according to Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).

Heavy rainfall triggered the flood at around 7pm local time in the region, affecting two sub-districts: Batang Angkola and Tano Tombangan.

“Reports indicate that power has been cut in the affected areas, and water levels are gradually receding,” said BNPB spokeperson Abdul Muhari in a statement Thursday.

As of 10.40 pm local time on the same day, authorities reported that 495 families had been affected, with 250 taking shelter at three evacuation centres in Simaninggir, Kota Tua, and Istana Hasadaon Kota.

Abdul Muhari stated that 495 houses were damaged, with mud reaching up to 50 centimetres in some areas. Cleanup efforts are ongoing with the help of local authorities and residents.

The South Tapanuli Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is coordinating with local districts to assist those affected and prepare for possible further flooding.

He also urged local authorities and residents to remain alert as heavy rain continues in the region, raising the risk of more floods.

-- BERNAMA