JAKARTA, Dec 13— Indonesia is grappling with one of its deadliest disasters in recent years as torrential rains and landslides have killed at least 1,003 people, displaced over a million, and caused widespread damage across northern Sumatra.
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency reported more than 5,400 injuries and 218 missing persons. Officials warned the death toll is likely to climb as remote and previously isolated areas become accessible.
Authorities estimate the cost of rebuilding homes, roads, and public infrastructure at 51.82 trillion rupiah ($3.1 billion). Despite calls for international aid, the government has relied on domestic resources to manage the crisis.
Indonesia’s tropical climate, mountainous terrain, and deforestation in some regions make it highly vulnerable to flooding and landslides. Climate experts warn that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense, heightening the risk of large-scale disasters.
President Prabowo Subianto visited affected districts on Saturday and said conditions were improving. “Here and there, due to natural and physical conditions, there have been slight delays. But I checked all the evacuation sites: their conditions are good, services are adequate, and food supplies are sufficient,” he said.
Authorities said the priority remains finding the missing, delivering relief, and preparing communities for additional rainfall in the coming days. The disaster has evoked memories of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which devastated Aceh and claimed over 170,000 lives.
