Indonesia submerged by the worst flood of the last 10 years: at least 19 victims and destroyed houses

At least 19 people have lost their lives due to the sudden floods that hit Bali and East Nusa Tenggara. The torrential rains, which began at the beginning of the week, caused the overflow of the rivers, overwhelming homes and roads. Only on the island of Bali there are 14 deaths, while on the island of Flores the balance has risen to five victims.

President Prabowo Sub -Stoplanto ordered to accelerate research operations and to guarantee immediate assistance to the affected communities. Over 600 operators between soldiers and volunteers have been mobilized for the removal of debris and for looking for the missing, also supported by thermal drones and excavators in the most isolated areas.

Emergency in Bali: unprecedented damage

According to local authorities, it is the worst flood of the last ten years. In Denpasar, the capital of the island, the roads have turned into rivers of mud and rubble, with overturned cars and personal objects dragged away by the current. Indoor neighborhoods remained without electricity for hours and hundreds of residents have found refuge in mosques and schools used for reception centers.

The tragedy did not even spare the tourist areas, Bali’s economic heart. Hotels and restaurants have undergone significant damage, while the road connections are compromised by landslides and collapses of bridges. Many residents also report the aggravation of the situation due to the structural problems of the island, such as the poor management of waste that obstruct the drainage systems.

The role of climate change

The monsical rains between September and March regularly bring landslides and floods to Indonesia with them, but according to experts climate change has made rainfall more violent and unpredictable. In recent years similar episodes have caused dozens of victims, a sign of a growing phenomenon that threatens the safety of local communities.

With the progressive withdrawal of the waters, the inhabitants of Bali are trying to return to their homes. However, the roads remain submerged by mud and debris and essential services must be restored in many areas. The local authorities declared the state of emergency for a week, in order to better coordinate the interventions and guarantee the delivery of basic necessities.

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