Jakarta, Indonesia — Four people have tragically lost their lives after landslides struck homes in Samarinda City, the capital of Indonesia’s East Kalimantan province, on Monday.
The disaster followed heavy rains that drenched the region, leading to unstable ground conditions. Sugeng Priyanto, head of the emergency unit of the Disaster Management and Mitigation Agency of East Kalimantan Province, confirmed the fatalities.
"Two bodies were recovered on Monday afternoon, and efforts are ongoing to locate the two individuals who remain buried under the debris," Priyanto said.
Rescue teams are working tirelessly amid challenging conditions to reach those still missing. Authorities have warned residents in the area to stay alert for further landslides, as the rainy season increases the risk of such incidents.
Indonesia is prone to natural disasters due to its geographical location along the Pacific "Ring of Fire," an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. Landslides and floods are common during the country’s wet season, often leading to casualties and property damage.
Local officials are urging communities in hilly and mountainous regions to take precautions and follow safety guidelines issued by disaster management agencies.
The tragedy in Samarinda highlights the ongoing challenges faced by residents in vulnerable areas and the importance of disaster preparedness and early warning systems.
