Tornado Hit North Sumatra's Tapanuli, Dozens Of Houses Damaged, Electric Pole Down

The impact of a tornado in North Tapanuli North Sumatra (DOK. IST)

MEDAN - Heavy rain accompanied by tornadoes occurred in North Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra. Dozens of houses were reported damaged.

Apart from the house, several trees and electric poles have also fallen, causing the electricity to still go out.

Head of Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of North Tapanuli Regency, Bonggas Freddy Pasaribu said the incident occurred at around 3:00 P.M WIB. There are two sub-districts in North Tapanuli Regency which are affected by a tornado.

"Yes, this afternoon there was a tornado around 3:00 P.M WIB. There were two sub-districts, Tarutung and Siatasbarita Districts. The rain was strong around 3 to 4 hours. But light rain had started at 1:00 P.M", said Bonggas, Monday, March 8.

Until now, BPBD is still listing several affected facilities, such as houses, food stalls, and public facilities.

"As of this afternoon, at least 30 houses and stalls in Tarutung District were damaged, both lightly and heavily. Meanwhile, in Siatasbarita District, data collection is still being carried out", explained Bonggas.

It was also reported that trees fell, blocking roads and falling on residents' houses.

“There were several houses that were badly and lightly damaged. There was also a fallen tree that fell on the house. According to the report we received from the sub-district head, there may be around 30 houses, maybe more. It is in Tarutung District. In Siatasbarita District, I have divided some of the members there", he explained.

Several roofing materials were swept away by a whirlwind of up to 50 meters and even stuck in the trees. At least 5 house units were severely damaged.

"Heavy rain accompanied by tornadoes and strong winds swirled like that. Flying the roof far away, the roof flew 50 meters", said Bonggas.

As a result of a collapsed electric pole, the electricity also went out.

"The electricity has not turned on until now. In the villages of Saitnihuta and Pabubu Pea, 4 electric poles fell, 2 mango and coconut trees were fell on top of the house", he said.