Flash floods in Indonesia’s North Sulawesi leave at least 16 dead, emergency declared

At least 16 people have died after sudden flash floods swept through parts of Indonesia’s North Sulawesi province following days of intense rainfall, according to local authorities. Heavy downpours caused rivers to overflow and embankments to collapse, sending fast-moving water mixed with debris into residential communities.

Officials say several homes were completely washed away, while more than 140 houses sustained significant damage. Hundreds of residents were forced to flee their homes as floodwaters surged through low-lying areas, disrupting daily life and damaging local infrastructure.

More than 680 people have been moved to temporary shelters set up in churches and public buildings. Police and military personnel are continuing search and rescue operations, including efforts to locate anyone still missing and to clear debris from affected neighbourhoods.

The regional government has declared a 14-day state of emergency to support ongoing rescue and relief efforts. Authorities have also warned residents to remain cautious, as forecasts indicate more rainfall is possible in the coming days, raising concerns about additional flooding and landslides.

Indonesia frequently experiences flooding during the rainy season, particularly in regions with mountainous terrain and densely populated river basins. Emergency officials say long-term mitigation efforts remain a challenge as extreme weather events become more frequent.