Acra: At least 34 individuals have lost their lives and 52 remain missing following severe floods and landslides that have ravaged Indonesias North Sumatra province. This catastrophic event unfolded after several days of persistent torrential rain, as reported by authorities on Thursday.

According to Ghana News Agency, provincial police spokesperson Ferry Walintukan shared with Metro TV that the natural disasters were triggered by intense rainfall, resulting in water levels exceeding one meter in certain areas. Police data reveals that since November 24, there have been 148 disaster incidents across 12 districts and cities, encompassing 86 landslides, 53 floods, seven instances of fallen trees, and two tornadoes.

Indonesia, a nation comprising over 17,000 islands, frequently faces floods and landslides during the November-to-March rainy season. Many communities residing along riverbanks or near unstable hillsides are particularly vulnerable, with access to remote areas often cut off for days due to damage
d roads and bridges.

To address the crisis, more than 1,000 police personnel have been deployed in the affected districts. Their responsibilities include facilitating evacuations, securing damaged areas, and managing traffic around landslide sites, as stated by the disaster agency.

Abdul Muhari, a spokesman for the disaster agency, noted that rainfall has intensified due to a tropical weather system forming just north of the island. He also reported that flooding has impacted neighboring provinces such as Aceh and West Sumatra.

This escalating situation in Indonesia coincides with reports of severe flooding across Southeast Asia, with southern Thailand experiencing at least 33 fatalities.