Death toll from Indonesia’s flash floods climbs to 16

January 6, 2026

New Delhi: The death toll from flash floods and landslides in Indonesia’s eastern province of North Sulawesi has climbed to 16, while three people remain missing, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) said on Tuesday.

Heavy Rain Triggers Disaster in Sitaro Islands

The disaster struck the Sitaro Islands Regency around 2:30 a.m. on Monday after hours of torrential rain caused rivers to overflow. According to BNPB, floodwaters had receded by Monday afternoon, but electricity and telecommunications services remained disrupted in several affected areas.

Homes Damaged, Hundreds Displaced

At least 148 houses across four districts were affected — seven were destroyed, 29 suffered severe damage, and 112 were lightly damaged. The floods also washed away five houses and cut road access between the East Siau and South East Siau sub-districts.
BNPB reported that 22 people were injured and taken to nearby health facilities. Around 682 residents are currently staying in temporary shelters, while 35 families, comprising 108 people, have been displaced.

Emergency Response Underway, Weather Risks Persist

Abdul Muhari, head of BNPB’s Data and Information Center, said rescue and relief operations are being carried out by disaster management agencies, search and rescue teams, the military, police, and volunteers. Local authorities have declared a 14-day emergency response period from January 5 to January 18 and urged residents to remain alert amid continued risks of extreme weather.

Indonesia frequently experiences flash floods and landslides during the rainy season.