A deadly landslide struck three villages in Cilacap, Central Java, Indonesia, on Thursday night, leaving two people dead and at least 21 others missing, authorities reported Friday. The disaster also buried and severely damaged homes, shaking the local community.
Rescue teams have been working tirelessly through Friday morning, managing to save 23 people alive. Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for Indonesia’s National Disaster Agency, said the search continues for those still missing. He highlighted that unstable terrain has made rescue efforts difficult, prompting the deployment of heavy machinery to aid the operation.
Earlier this week, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency issued an extreme weather warning, cautioning that parts of Indonesia could face heavy rainfall and hydrometeorological disasters in the coming weeks.
Indonesia’s monsoon season, which usually lasts from November to April, often brings with it landslides, flash floods, and water-borne diseases. Experts say climate change has intensified storm patterns, making rains heavier, floods more severe, and winds stronger.
This tragic incident follows similar disasters earlier this month in Papua, where flash floods and landslides claimed 15 lives and left eight missing, reminding the nation of the growing dangers posed by extreme weather.
Our thoughts go out to the families and communities affected. In times like these, it’s crucial for neighbors to support each other and stay informed about safety warnings.
