Emergency Situation, 3,362 West Sumatra Solok Residents Become Flood Victims

JAKARTA - A total of 3,362 residents of Solok City, West Sumatra were victims of flooding directed by the overflowing of the Batang Lembang and Batang Gawan rivers as reported by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB)

Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information and Communication Center Abdul Muhari explained that the two rivers overflowed after the last 24 hours of rain flushed the West Sumatra region, and floods from neighboring areas worsened conditions in Solok City.

"Temporary data collection recorded 598 families or 3,362 affected people, with 224 houses submerged," Abdul said in his statement, Friday, November 28.

BNPB confirmed that thousands of people were spread across several areas in Tanjung Harapan sub-district, which includes Koto Panjang and Nan Balimo sub-districts. Then Lubuk Sicarah sub-district which includes Kampa Tabu Karambia, IX Korong, Aro IV Korong, Sinapa Piliang, VI Suku, and Tanah Garam Villages.

"Debit air is reportedly still increasing and overflowing again into residential areas. The Solok City BPBD team continues to evacuate residents to safe locations," he added.

Abdul revealed that the Solok Mayor determined the Flood Emergency Response Status, which allowed the thickening of the distribution of logistical assistance - search and rescue efforts for disaster victims from the central and local governments.

The data received by BNPB recorded a number of urgent needs needed by residents, including basic necessities, ready-to-eat food, velbeds, blankets, pillows, jackets, family packages, cleaning equipment, evacuation tents, water suction machines, and evacuation boats.

"People who need assistance can contact the BNPB Call Center at number 117," he said.