The death toll from floods and landslides on Indonesia's Sumatra Island has exceeded 1,000, with more than 200 people still reported missing.
Indonesian rescue officials disclosed on Saturday, 13 Dec 2025 GMT+7, that severe floods and landslides that struck several areas on Sumatra Island over the past two weeks have resulted in at least 1,006 deaths and 5,400 injuries.
Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency, predicted the death toll could rise further, as 217 people remain missing and authorities are intensifying aid efforts in the hardest-hit areas.
These floods and landslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, have caused severe damage on Sumatra Island, marking one of the worst recent disasters the island has faced. About 1.2 million people have been forced to evacuate to temporary shelters.
Flood victims have begun expressing frustration over the government's slow response in delivering aid. However, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto affirmed on Saturday that the situation is now improving, with many previously isolated areas becoming accessible.
"There may be slight delays in some areas due to physical and natural conditions, but I have inspected all evacuation sites. Their living conditions are good, services are sufficient, and food supplies are adequate," President Prabowo said after visiting Langkat district in North Sumatra province.
The spokesperson for the disaster mitigation agency stated that over 11.7 tons of aid were delivered to Sumatra Island by sea, land, and air on Saturday, and the government has begun constructing temporary shelters for displaced people.
It is estimated that the post-disaster recovery costs could reach 51.82 trillion rupiah (approximately 27 trillion baht). So far, the Indonesian government has declined offers of international assistance.
Indonesia's meteorological agency has warned that severe weather will continue, especially heavy rainfall over Sumatra Island.
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Source:cna