Landslide in Indonesia’s Java Province Claims 21 Lives, 5 Still Missing

Tragedy Strikes in Pekalongan City

A devastating landslide in a mountainous area near Pekalongan city in Central Java province, Indonesia, has claimed the lives of 21 people, with five others still missing. The disaster occurred on Monday due to intense rainfall, which collapsed bridges and buried cars and houses.

Search and Rescue Efforts Underway

Budiono, head of the search and rescue agency from nearby city Semarang, reported that 21 victims have been found, and rescue teams are still searching for the remaining five individuals. Heavy equipment has been deployed to the worst-hit Kasimpar village to search through the remains of the house of a local official as well as a cafe where more victims are thought to have been buried as they sought shelter from the rain.

"We are focusing on those two spots and the nearby river. Victims might have been carried to the river because of the current," said Budiono.

Injuries and Casualties

At least 13 people were injured in the landslide, according to search and rescue agency Basarnas. The rescuers have started to clean the thick mud and debris from the roads, Budiono said.

Indonesia’s Prone to Landslides

Indonesia is prone to landslides during the rainy season, typically between November and April, but some disasters caused by adverse weather have taken place outside that season in recent years. Climate change has also increased the intensity of storms, leading to heavier rains, flash floods, and stronger gusts.

Recent Disaster in West Sumatra

In May, at least 67 people died after heavy rains caused flash floods in West Sumatra, pushing a mixture of ash, sand, and pebbles from the eruption of Mount Marapi into residential areas.

Conclusion

The devastating landslide in Pekalongan city has left a trail of destruction and loss of life. As rescue efforts continue, the government and emergency services are working tirelessly to find the remaining missing persons and provide aid to those affected. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and the need for effective disaster management strategies to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the current death toll from the landslide?
  The death toll has risen to 21, with 5 people still missing.
• Where did the landslide occur?
  The landslide occurred in a mountainous area near Pekalongan city in Central Java province, Indonesia.
• How many people were injured in the landslide?
  At least 13 people were injured.
• What is the cause of the landslide?
  The landslide was caused by intense rainfall on Monday.
• Is Indonesia prone to landslides?
  Yes, Indonesia is prone to landslides during the rainy season, typically between November and April.