The disaster unfolded on Saturday evening after hours of torrential downpours caused massive volcanic rocks to cascade down the slopes of Mount Marapi, one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes. The deluge of rain and volcanic debris slammed into villages in Sumatra's Agam and Tanah Datar districts, transforming roads into raging rivers and inundating homes, mosques, and rice fields.
Local disaster officials confirmed 41 fatalities, with a focus on search and rescue efforts for the missing individuals. Evacuation centers have been established to house those displaced by the disaster, with over 2,000 people seeking refuge in Tanah Datar alone.
The cold lava, known as lahar, comprised of volcanic ash, sand, and pebbles caused widespread destruction. Authorities deployed rescue teams with rubber boats to navigate the floodwaters and locate survivors.
Survivors recounted harrowing tales of the event, describing thunderous sounds and darkness as they fled the rising floodwaters and cascading rocks.
Indonesia's geography places it at high risk for landslides and floods, particularly during the rainy season. Experts warn that deforestation exacerbates these natural disasters, a concern raised by environmental groups following a similar flood event in 2022 that claimed the lives of two children. (ILKHA)
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