Alpha News

Deadly Flash Floods Hit North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Published January 6, 2026, 09:24

At least 14 people have died and four are missing following flash floods in North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Heavy rainfall on Siau Island caused the floods, with 18 others injured. Authorities are continuing their search for the missing and assessing the full extent of the damage. More than 440 people have been evacuated and are being sheltered in schools and churches. The floods have destroyed hundreds of homes and public buildings, making access to many areas difficult due to landslides and debris. Heavy machinery has been deployed to clear roads and facilitate rescue and aid efforts. The Indonesian Meteorological Agency reports that the floods occurred during the peak of the rainy season in Sulawesi. The region is particularly vulnerable to natural disasters, such as floods and landslides. The tragic incident comes just weeks after a similar disaster in Sumatra, where over 1,000 people lost their lives in floods and landslides caused by a cyclone. Environmental organizations point out that deforestation exacerbates the consequences of extreme weather events.