Indonesia: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Ternate Island, North Maluku Province, as of Aug. 25

Flood-related disruptions are ongoing across Ternate Island, North Maluku Province, as of Aug. 25. Heavy rainfall has been ongoing in the region since Aug. 24, triggering widespread flooding and flash floods. Authorities have reported at least 13 fatalities and two injured in Rua Village, which was the worst affected. Around 10 houses are reportedly destroyed in Ternate City. The Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) has forecast further showers in the region over the coming days. Additional downpours could trigger further flash floods and hamper ongoing response operations.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces will probably cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will likely temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.