Indonesia Flood Death Toll Rises to 16

Screengrab of SHABD video

Law Mail Desk

Indonesia, January 7, 2026:

At least 16 people have been confirmed dead after flash floods swept through Siau Island in Indonesia’s North Sulawesi region following heavy rainfall early on Monday.

Local authorities said rescue teams have been deployed to search for three people who remain missing, while at least 18 others have been injured.

Search and evacuation efforts are being hampered by blocked roads, with debris, mud, and large rocks cutting off access to several affected areas. This has significantly slowed rescue operations.

More than 200 police personnel have been deployed to assist with evacuations, distribute relief supplies, and help set up emergency health services for displaced residents.

The impact of the floods has been severe. More than 600 residents have been evacuated to temporary shelters set up in schools and churches. Several homes and government buildings have been destroyed, with damage reported to be extensive.

Heavy machinery, including excavators, has been deployed to clear key roads and restore access to affected areas.

Authorities have warned that the danger is not over. The floods occurred during the peak of the wet season in Sulawesi, and weather officials have forecast continued heavy rainfall across Sulawesi and other parts of Indonesia through January and February.

Concerns remain high over the risk of further flooding in the coming weeks.