Indonesia, over 200 dead after landslides and floods in Sumatra

Agam (Indonesia), Nov. 29 (LaPresse) – Floods and landslides on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, have caused at least 248 deaths, with over 100 people still missing. Last week’s monsoon rains caused rivers to overflow, sweeping through mountain villages and submerging thousands of homes. Rescue efforts are difficult due to damaged roads and bridges and a lack of heavy equipment, but relief aircraft are delivering aid to the hardest-hit areas, such as the Central Tapanuli district. About 3,000 displaced families have taken shelter in government centers. Authorities expect the death toll to rise. “There are many challenges,” said Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf after declaring a state of emergency until December 11. “We have many tasks to carry out as quickly as possible, but the conditions do not allow it.”