Deadly flash floods hit North Sulawesi, Indonesia

January 06, 2026 / 10:28 AM

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Sharjah24 - WAM: At least 14 people have lost their lives after flash floods swept through North Sulawesi in Indonesia, officials said on Tuesday, as rescue teams continued searching for four missing persons.

Heavy rain triggers disaster

According to local authorities, intense rainfall early Monday triggered sudden flooding on Siau Island, part of the Siau Tagulandang Biaro region. The floods struck with little warning, sweeping residents away, said Nuriadin Gumeleng, spokesperson for the local rescue agency.

Ongoing search and rescue efforts

Gumeleng confirmed that 16 rescuers have been deployed to locate the four people still unaccounted for. He added that 18 others were injured as a result of the floods, with search operations continuing into Tuesday.

Mass evacuations underway

Meanwhile, the Indonesia disaster mitigation agency said that at least 444 residents have been evacuated from affected areas. Displaced families are currently sheltering in local schools and churches, according to agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari.

Weather warnings issued

Indonesia’s weather authorities have warned that January and February mark the peak of the rainy season. Regions including Java, Sulawesi, Maluku, and Papua are expected to face heightened risks of flooding, urging communities to remain alert as severe weather continues.