INDOPOSCO.ID – Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reported that the death toll from flash floods and landslides in North Sumatra has climbed to 166 as of Saturday (Nov. 29, 2025). Another 143 people remain missing and are still being searched for by rescue teams.
BNPB Chief Suharyanto, in an official statement received in Jakarta on Sunday, said the sharp increase in fatalities resulted from intensified search and rescue (SAR) efforts carried out by joint teams under the coordination of Basarnas following the declaration of emergency status earlier this week.
“Sixty additional bodies were found in a single day thanks to the combined SAR operations,” he said.
BNPB noted that the worst impact occurred in Central Tapanuli, South Tapanuli, and Sibolga City.
Beyond the fatalities, thousands of families have fled their homes and are now spread across several affected regions, including South Tapanuli, Sibolga, Mandailing Natal, North Tapanuli, and Humbang Hasundutan.
“Data collection is still underway alongside the 24-hour SAR operations,” Suharyanto added.
He also emphasized that efforts to meet the basic needs of evacuees, reopen access to isolated areas, and speed up logistical distribution continue to be reinforced.
To expand the reach of emergency assistance, BNPB has deployed five support helicopters stationed at Silangit Airport. These aircraft are being used primarily to deliver aid to Central Tapanuli, Mandailing Natal, and other hard-to-reach areas, according to Antara.
Indonesian Army helicopters Bell 412EPI and MI-17V5, along with privately operated helicopters and a Cessna Caravan aircraft, have also been mobilized for the operation. (aro)
