Indonesia: Flash flood kills six in Yogyakarta province (Java) February 21 /update 1

Event

At least six students were killed and five others remain missing after being swept away by a flash flood in Yogyakarta province (Java) on Friday, February 21. The students were hiking on the bank of the Sempor river as part of a school trip when a downpour cause the river's banks to burst. As of Friday night (local time), 239 students have been rescued; rescue operation are still ongoing.

Flooding and landslides have affected thousands of properties and caused severe transportation disruptions across Sumatra, Java, and Kalimantan over the past week. Further heavy rainfall, flooding, and associated disruptions, including road closures, are possible in the area over the near term.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas in Indonesia are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate lingering transportation and business disruptions, confirm flight reservations, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.