Authorities in Indonesia have reported a rising death toll from the devastating floods and landslides that struck the island of Java, now reaching at least 21 fatalities. The disaster, worsened by torrential rains on Monday, affected several villages in Pekalongan regency, Central Java, with officials confirming a significant impact on local communities, where nine villages were inundated.

Rescue teams, as recounted by the National Disaster Management Agency spokesperson, Abdul Muhari, worked through challenging conditions, with muddy terrains transforming once-vibrant landscapes into agonizing scenes of destruction. “Flooding triggered landslides that buried multiple buildings in the Petungkriyono resort area,” he stated. Many people were swept away, including a tragic instance where a 5-month-old baby was found among the recovered victims. In total, around 25 homes, a dam, and three major bridges were destroyed as a result of these natural disasters.

As of now, approximately 300 individuals have sought refuge in temporary government shelters due to the chaos, with many more still reports missing in the rapidly changing situation. Search operations have faced significant interruptions from ongoing bad weather and treacherous conditions, leading to urgent appeals for improved safety measures and support for rescue personnel. Videos and images released by the National Search and Rescue Agency depict the arduous recovery effort, as workers sift through thick mud, uprooted trees, and debris.

Reports of further landslides in other parts of the country, including Bali, where four individuals lost their lives, emphasize the widespread impact of this seasonal weather phenomenon. Seasonal rains in Indonesia often lead to similar catastrophes, particularly from October to March, underscoring the need for heightened disaster preparedness in this archipelago of 17,000 islands. These events highlight the increasing challenges faced by communities vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

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