Sumatra, Nov 29 (V7N) — The death toll from floods and landslides on Sumatra Island, Indonesia, has risen to 248 as heavy monsoon rains and a powerful tropical storm continue to devastate the region. Thousands of families are now homeless, and many people remain missing, hampering rescue efforts, according to Qatar-based media outlet Al Jazeera.

The country’s disaster management authority warned that the death toll may increase. Over 100 people are still missing, and hundreds have sustained injuries.

Flooding has caused widespread damage to mountainous villages in North Sumatra. While many families have been evacuated to safer areas, road landslides, collapsed bridges, and loss of communication in remote regions have severely complicated rescue operations.

Relief flights and emergency supplies are being sent to affected districts, including the central province of Tapanuli.

The natural disaster has not only claimed human lives but also damaged infrastructure and communication networks across the region. Despite slow progress, authorities continue efforts to ensure safety and provide assistance to affected communities.

END/SMA/AJ