In a tragic event, Indonesian rescuers have recovered at least 16 bodies following flash floods and landslides that struck hilly villages in Central Java’s Pekalongan regency. Torrential rains on Monday led to rivers overflowing, sweeping away homes and causing mud, rocks, and trees to tumble down mountainsides, devastating several villages. The worst-hit village, Petungkriyono, has been the focus of rescue operations as officials continue their search for survivors.
The local Disaster Management Agency reported that 16 bodies had been pulled from the debris by Tuesday, but nine villagers remain unaccounted for. In addition, ten people who were injured managed to escape the flooding and landslides and have been rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Rescue teams are working around the clock, aided by local residents, in the hope of finding the missing villagers and providing aid to those affected.
Indonesia is no stranger to seasonal floods and landslides, particularly during the rainy season, which lasts from October to March. The archipelago, made up of over 17,000 islands, is home to millions of people living in mountainous areas or near fertile floodplains. The frequent occurrence of natural disasters in these areas poses ongoing challenges for both local communities and disaster management authorities.
