Devastating flash floods hit Indonesia’s Sumatra Island over the weekend, causing chaos in four districts of West Sumatra province. The deluge, triggered by monsoon rains and a landslide from Mount Marapi, destroyed villages and claimed the lives of at least 50 people. Rescue teams are frantically searching for 27 missing individuals, using all available tools to clear mud, rocks, and debris.
The disaster has forced over 3,300 residents to seek refuge in government shelters, with many remote areas still inaccessible. The death toll is expected to rise as the search continues. Indonesia, prone to natural calamities due to its geographic location, has seen an uptick in such incidents recently, including a surprise eruption of Mount Marapi late last year.
The nation, home to over 120 active volcanoes, remains vigilant against seismic activity. The resilient Indonesian people, supported by dedicated rescue teams, are facing this latest challenge with courage and determination in the midst of tragedy.