1 432 natural disasters claimed 493 lives so far this year in Indonesia

At least 493 people lost their lives while 68 remain missing in 1 432 natural disasters in Indonesia between January 1, 2021, and June 17, 2021, according to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB). 5.2 million people have been affected, many of whom were forced to evacuate their homes. 

This year, Indonesia has been hit by natural disasters like floods, landslides, whirlwinds, and forest fires, all of which are commonly reported in the country.

From January 1 to June 15, at least 493 people have died in the calamities, while 68 others remain missing. 12 853 others were injured.

Disaster events this year damaged as many as 135 187 homes, 2 920 public facilities, 1 367 educational facilities, 1 207 places of worship, 346 health facilities, 492 office buildings, and 282 bridges.

5 206 534 people have been affected, many of whom had to seek refuge elsewhere.

A total of 1 432 natural disasters have occurred in different parts of the country — of which 596 were floods, 395 tornadoes, and 291 landslides.

The country also experienced 109 bush and forest fires, 20 events of abrasion and high waves, 19 disastrous earthquakes, and two dry spells.

One of the deadliest catastrophes that Indonesia faced this year was the M6.2 earthquake that shook the districts of Mamuju and Majene in West Sulawesi on January 15.

The tremblor killed more than 100 people and affected several residents in sub-districts, such as Mamuju, Barat, Tapalang, Simboro, Kalukku, Kepulauan, and Bonehau.

In Mamuju alone, the quake damaged 9 179 houses.

According to BNPB spokesperson Raditya Jati, highlighting Indonesia's vulnerability to such natural hazards has caused people to remain vigilant.

Featured image credit: BNPB