Floods and landslides in northwestern Sumatra have killed 1,006 people and injured over 5,400, with 217 still missing. Roughly 1.2 million residents are displaced and temporary shelters are being constructed as authorities deliver more than 11.7 tonnes of aid. The government estimates reconstruction costs at roughly 51.82 trillion rupiah (~$3.1 billion) and has so far declined international assistance. Meteorologists warn heavy rain may continue, raising the prospect the toll could rise.
Indonesia Floods: Death Toll Tops 1,000 as Authorities Ramp Up Rescue and Relief
The deadly torrential rains are one of the worst recent disasters to strike Sumatra (CHAIDEER MAHYUDDIN)(CHAIDEER MAHYUDDIN/AFP/AFP)
Rescuers said Saturday that catastrophic flooding and landslides across northwestern Sumatra have killed 1,006 people and injured more than 5,400, as Indonesia mounts a major relief operation.
The disaster, driven by two weeks of torrential rain, has hit large parts of the island—one of Indonesia's most populous regions—leaving homes buried in mud, roads blocked by felled trees and rivers overflowing their banks. Authorities say the final toll could rise: 217 people remain missing and search-and-rescue teams continue work in the hardest-hit districts.
Human Cost and Displacement
Large swathes of land have been ruined by rain, mud and fallen trees. About 1.2 million residents have been forced from their homes and are sheltering in evacuation centers and temporary camps. Many families have lost everything.
"Most of the houses here are gone, destroyed to the ground," said 50-year-old Sri Lestari, who is living in a tent with her three children in Aceh Tamiang district. "Look at our house... how can we fix it?" her husband Tarmiji added.
Relief Efforts and Challenges
President Prabowo Subianto said conditions have improved in some areas and that previously cut-off communities are now reachable. The disaster mitigation agency reported more than 11.7 tonnes of aid delivered by land, sea and air, and authorities have begun constructing temporary shelters for displaced residents.
Despite the flow of supplies, frustration is growing among survivors who say relief has been too slow in pockets of the worst-affected terrain. Logistical challenges—blocked roads, mudslides and severe weather—have hampered faster distribution.
The government estimates reconstruction costs could reach 51.82 trillion rupiah (about $3.1 billion). So far officials have declined to seek international assistance, saying domestic resources and distribution are being mobilized.
Forecast And Risks Ahead
Indonesia's meteorological agency warned that severe weather is likely to continue across Sumatra, with more heavy rain forecast. Authorities have urged communities to remain vigilant as floodwaters and landslide risks persist.
Quick facts: 1,006 confirmed dead; more than 5,400 injured; 217 missing; ~1.2 million displaced; 11.7+ tonnes of aid delivered; reconstruction cost estimate 51.82 trillion rupiah (~$3.1B).
