Indonesia: Response operations ongoing following landslide in Natuna Regency, Riau Islands Province, as of late March 6

Event

Response operations are ongoing on Serasan Island in Natuna Regency, Riau Islands Province, as of late March 6 following a landslide. The landslide occurred late morning March 6 following heavy rainfall and authorities have reported at least 10 fatalities as of late March 6; the death toll may continue to rise as search and rescue operations progress. Response operations have been hampered by adverse weather conditions and difficulty accessing the remote location of the incident. Communication networks have also reportedly been disrupted in the area.

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has issued early weather warnings for moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning across the region through March 7. Additional downpours could hamper ongoing response efforts due to the threat of further slips on unstable slopes, as well as potentially impacting the arrival of aid and emergency services.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional landslides on unstable slopes and flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Transport disruptions are likely to be ongoing for some time in the vicinity of the incident due to ongoing response operations and the prioritization of routes for emergency services.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Indonesia Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG)