JAKARTA, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from flash floods and landslides in the eastern Indonesian province of North Sulawesi early Monday has risen to nine, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) said.
The disaster struck Sitaro Islands Regency at around 2:30 a.m. local time following prolonged heavy rainfall.
BNPB said five people remain missing, while 17 others were injured. A total of 102 residents were displaced and sheltered at a nearby church building.
The agency also said that rocks and mud swept through residential areas, inundating streets and damaging houses. Floodwaters had receded by Monday afternoon, but electricity and telecommunications networks remained disrupted in the affected areas.
Five houses were reportedly washed away, while assessments of other material losses are still underway.
Joint search and rescue teams are continuing evacuation and search operations for those reported missing.
BNPB said logistical challenges persist due to limited ferry schedules to the island regency.
Indonesia frequently experiences flash floods and landslides during the rainy season. ■