Inp.polri.go.id - Medan. A sudden flash flood in Huta Nabolon, Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra, on Sunday (7/12/2025) disrupted ongoing logistics distribution and search-and-rescue (SAR) operations for missing residents after heavy rains.

“Many of our relatives are still buried, and we urgently need heavy equipment to recover them,” said Margembira Gultom, a local resident, highlighting the severe impact on approximately 150–200 households destroyed in the previous flood, as quoted by antaranews.com

The flash flood, carrying large timber and debris, blocked access to nearby hillside villages including Sigiring-giring, Saurmanggita, and Tapianauli. SAR teams suspended operations and returned to the joint command post at GOR Pandan stadium due to safety concerns and unstable telecommunications.

While basic aid such as food, blankets, and kitchen supplies reached some residents, many remained isolated. Officials are now prioritizing the deployment of excavators and equipment to clear debris, restore river flows, and resume the search for missing victims.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)