Indonesian flood death toll rises to 442

Indonesian flood death toll rises to 442

The death toll from floods and landslides triggered by Cyclone Shen-Yar on Indonesia’s Sumatra island has risen to 442, local officials said on Sunday, November 30.

Earlier in the day, the figure was reported to be over 300, but it suddenly surged to nearly 450. Most roads across Sumatra have collapsed or been severely damaged, leaving transport links cut off. Many people remain without electricity and internet.

Thousands of homes have been submerged as a result of Cyclone Shen-Yar, while hundreds of houses have been swept away. Rescue operations have been hampered by severe weather. Although several thousand people have been moved to safety, many remain stranded in floodwater.

The worst-hit area is Tapanuli in Sumatra. Shortages of food have led local residents to loot shops.

The intensified monsoon caused by the cyclone has resulted in one of the worst floods in recent memory across Southeast Asia. In addition to Indonesia, hundreds have been killed in Malaysia and Thailand. Thailand has so far reported 170 deaths, while the death toll in Sri Lanka stands at nearly 200 and is feared to rise further.