Residents of the Indonesian island of Sumatra are resorting to desperate measures, including stealing food and water, as they grapple with the aftermath of devastating floods that have claimed at least 303 lives. The floods, which struck nearly a week ago, have left thousands displaced and caused extensive damage across the region, particularly in the city of Sibolga and the Central Tapanuli district.
According to local authorities, many individuals have been seen scrambling through flooded streets and damaged stores in search of essential supplies. Videos circulating on social media depict people wading through waist-deep water to access food, medicine, and fuel. Ferry Walintukan, a spokesperson for the North Sumatra Police, confirmed that incidents of looting began on Saturday evening, stating, “The looting happened before logistical aid arrived. Residents were worried they would starve.”
Ongoing Rescue Efforts Amid Challenges
Rescue operations have been severely hampered by the adverse weather conditions and a lack of heavy equipment. The Indonesian government has deployed eleven helicopters from Jakarta to facilitate the distribution of aid, particularly to areas inaccessible by land. Teddy Indra Wijaya, Cabinet Secretary, noted that unpredictable weather has complicated these operations. Footage released by the Cabinet Secretariat shows military helicopters airdropping supplies to survivors in hard-hit areas.
In the village of North Tapanuli, survivors waved frantically at helicopters overhead, signaling their urgent need for assistance. Additionally, four navy ships have docked at a nearby port to help with aid distribution efforts.
The floods have triggered landslides, damaged roads, and disrupted communication lines, making rescue and recovery efforts even more difficult. As bodies continue to be recovered, officials expect the death toll to rise further.
Sri Lanka Also Faces Severe Flooding
Meanwhile, the situation in Sri Lanka has also deteriorated, with floodwaters and mudslides resulting in a rising death toll of 193. Local officials report that 228 individuals remain missing, while approximately 148,000 people have been displaced from their homes and are currently housed in temporary shelters.
Severe weather conditions have plagued Sri Lanka since last week, worsening on Thursday with heavy rains that inundated homes, agricultural fields, and roads, particularly in the tea-growing central hill country. The Cyclone Ditwah, which developed in the seas east of Sri Lanka, is forecasted to move toward India’s southern coast.
As rescue operations continue in both nations, the international community watches closely, hoping for a swift response to the needs of those affected by these catastrophic events.
