Widespread damage after new wave of floods hit Indonesia, more than 56 000 people affected and 9 285 buildings flooded

More than 9 280 buildings were flooded and 56 000 people affected after heavy rains triggered widespread flooding in Indonesia's Bandung regency, according to the National Board for Disaster Management (BNPB) report released on April 1, 2020.

Among the affected buildings were 28 schools across the regency. In addition, 61 houses were slightly damaged, and 238 people were affected across the neighboring Bogor regency.

According to BNPB spokesperson Agus Wibowo, the floodwater in Bandung's southern region reached up to 2.8 m (9.2 feet) on Tuesday afternoon, March 31. The most affected areas were Dayeuhkolot, Bojong Soang, and Bale Endah.

In the district of Dayeuhkolot, three locations were swamped, forcing 111 residents to flee their homes. As much as 4 092 houses were affected, as well as eight prayer houses, and two schools.

In Bale Endah, 4 439 houses and 26 schools were inundated with waters reaching up to 2.9 m (9.5 feet). Roughly 20 518 residents were affected.

Lastly, in Bojong Soang, floodwaters were up to 1.9 m (6.2 feet) high. 45 homes were hit in several villages, impacting a total of 2 812 citizens.

Local media also reported that one person died after slipping in floodwater as he was attempting to flee.

Seven roads were cut off by waters, blocking access to several districts, said BPBD Bandung operational management officer Iyus Setiwawan.

"The BPBD is currently coordinating with the search and rescue team, district officials and volunteers to carry out an assessment and evacuation in the hardest-hit locations," he added.

Julie Celestial

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