The recent floods in Indonesia have claimed over 500 lives and left another 500 people missing. These floods, triggered by a rare cyclone in the Malacca Strait, have affected three provinces and impacted about 1.4 million individuals, according to the country’s disaster agency. Rescue workers are dealing with challenging conditions as they attempt to reach those in need.
The provinces of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra have been the hardest hit. Many residents remain isolated and lack essential supplies. Reports indicate that locals have experienced severe shortages of food and clean water, prompting some to walk long distances in search of basic necessities. In Central Tapanuli, a resident highlighted the urgent need for food as supplies run low, stating that even instant noodles have become scarce.
Efforts to reach communities are complicated by impassable roads, with aid workers relying on foot or motorcycle travel. As feedback from residents shows, some areas have not had any signal for communication, prompting people to queue for access to technology that could connect them with family members.
Criticism of the government’s response to the disaster has emerged, with some blaming bureaucratic obstacles for delays in aid distribution. President Prabowo Subianto visited affected regions and acknowledged the challenges posed by damaged infrastructure while asserting that the government is working diligently to address the situation.
The monsoon season in Indonesia, which lasts from November to March, is known for bringing heavy precipitation. While establishing a direct connection between specific weather events and climate change is complex, researchers indicate that climate change is contributing to an increase in the frequency and severity of storms that can result in significant rainfall and flooding.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g4enlp6kzo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss