1,824 Affected, 608 Houses Submerged: Impact Of Padang Pariaman Flood

Floods in Padang Pariaman Regency, West Sumatra (doc BNPB)

High-intensity rain from Saturday 22 to Sunday 23 November caused the water discharge of a number of rivers in Padang Pariaman Regency, West Sumatra, to overflow and inundate residential areas.

Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information and Communication Center, Abdul Muhari, said that the four overflowing rivers include Batang Anai, Batang Ulakan, Batang Lubuak and Batang Kamuuan rivers. This incident affected seven sub-districts and 14 villages.

As many as 608 families or 1,824 people were affected by the flood. Temporary reports state that two residents suffered minor injuries. All affected residents have been evacuated independently or by a joint team, and so far there have been no reports of casualties.

"The team in the field is still carrying out emergency handling, evacuation and further data collection. We urge the public to remain vigilant and stay away from riverbanks because the potential for further flooding is still possible," said Abdul Muhari, Monday, November 24.

Material losses include 608 housing units submerged, two damaged houses, 108.5 hectares of agricultural land, two damaged road access including the road in front of Padang Pariaman Hospital, two damaged bridges, one damaged dam, two damaged irrigation canals, one affected educational facility, and two road bodies buried by cliff landslides at Korong Asam, Nagari Island, Anduriang and Nagari, West Sikucua.

The Padang Pariaman Regency BPBD together with local governments, TRC PB, TNI' Polri, sub-district governments, nagari governments, volunteers and related agencies have carried out evacuations, field visits, and emergency handling. The current urgent needs include heavy equipment to open access and support for public kitchens for affected residents.

The current situation as of Sunday, November 23, shows that rain is still ongoing in some areas affected. Local governments are increasing their vigilance because the risk of further flooding can still occur.

BNPB reminded the public to continue to monitor official weather information, follow the officers' directions, and immediately report if there is an increase in water discharge.