Floods and Landslides Wreak Havoc in Java, Indonesia
Floods and landslides on Indonesia’s main island of Java have killed three people and left five more missing after heavy rains inundated two dozen towns, an official said Friday.
Flooding and Landslides Widespread
Torrential rains this week hit capital Jakarta and its surrounding cities, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate and authorities to use weather modification technology. However, the bad weather carried on in neighbouring West Java province Thursday, hitting most parts of its Sukabumi district, damaging houses and flooding hundreds of public facilities including schools and hospitals.
Casualties and Evacuations
At least three people, including a child, were found dead, and five people in two separate districts were still missing, according to the local disaster agency. More than 200 people had to evacuate to higher ground as the disaster caused by extreme weather and torrential rain with high intensity that lasted for a long time, said agency spokesperson Andrie Setiawan.
Affected Areas
At least 24 towns in the district were affected by flooding and landslides, with hundreds of public facilities, including schools and hospitals, damaged. The disaster was exacerbated by the high intensity of the rain, which was a result of climate change.
Climate Change Factor
Indonesia is prone to landslides during the rainy season, typically between November and April. Climate change has also increased the intensity of storms, leading to heavier rains, flash floods, and stronger gusts. This is not the first time Indonesia has been affected by severe weather events; in January, at least 25 people died after floods and landslides hit a town in Central Java, and around 70 people died in May last year 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 recent floods and landslides in Java, Indonesia, serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of extreme weather events, particularly in regions prone to natural disasters. As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, it is essential to acknowledge the long-term implications of these events and work towards mitigating their effects.
FAQs
Q: What caused the floods and landslides in Java, Indonesia?
A: The disaster was caused by extreme weather and torrential rain with high intensity that lasted for a long time.
Q: How many people were affected by the disaster?
A: At least 24 towns were affected, and more than 200 people had to evacuate to higher ground.
Q: How many people died in the disaster?
A: At least three people, including a child, were found dead, and five people in two separate districts were still missing.
Q: Is Indonesia prone to natural disasters?
A: Yes, Indonesia is prone to landslides during the rainy season, typically between November and April, and climate change has increased the intensity of storms, leading to heavier rains, flash floods, and stronger gusts.