Indonesian Rescuers Battle to Find Hundreds Missing Following Devastating Floods

Tue Dec 02 2025 07:46:56 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In the wake of catastrophic flooding triggered by Cyclone Senyar, Indonesia is in a state of emergency as rescuers search for over 400 missing individuals amidst rising death tolls and widespread devastation.

Indonesia is facing a humanitarian crisis following deadly flooding and landslides caused by Cyclone Senyar. With over 400 people reported missing and a death toll exceeding 440, Indonesia has mobilized rescue teams while grappling with significant destruction across affected regions. Critical aid is delayed, and reports of looting for food and supplies are emerging as communities struggle to cope with the aftermath.

Rescuers in Indonesia are searching for at least 400 people who have been reported missing, many believed to be buried under landslides, after cyclonic rains caused disastrous flooding nearly a week ago.

The death toll on the island of Sumatra has risen to more than 440, the government says.

Aid has been sent into affected areas by air and by sea, but some villages have yet to receive anything, and there are reports of people stealing food and water to survive.

Torrential rain and storms have devastated parts of Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka, affecting millions and claiming more than 900 lives across the region this month.

An exceptionally rare tropical storm, named Cyclone Senyar, caused catastrophic landslides and flooding in Indonesia, with homes swept away and thousands of buildings submerged.

People are reported missing in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, according to the National Disaster Management Agency.

'There are two cities that require full attention due to being isolated,' agency head Suharyanto was quoted as saying.

Some foreign aid has arrived, with Malaysia sending medical supplies to Aceh, one of the worst-hit provinces.

In Sungai Nyalo village, floodwaters had mostly receded, leaving homes and vehicles covered in thick mud. However, authorities have not yet begun clearing roads, and reports suggest the villagers are isolated without assistance.

Police reported incidents of looting as residents desperate for supplies broke into shops on Sumatra before logistical aid arrived.

In addition, tech billionaire Elon Musk has announced that he will provide free Starlink services to support communications during the emergency.

This tragic flooding is not an isolated incident; at least 170 deaths have been recorded in Thailand, and over 330 people have died in Sri Lanka from floods and mudslides this month. Communities facing corruption in disaster preparedness are also further exacerbated by political tensions in the Philippines, where public anger over the mismanagement of flood funds is threatening the current administration.