Jakarta — The devastating flash flood that struck Kampung Jim in Catubouw District, Pegunungan Arfak Regency, West Papua, has now claimed 15 lives, with four individuals still missing, according to Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) on Friday, May 23.
The disaster occurred on the night of Friday, May 16, following nearly seven hours of intense rainfall beginning at 1:00 p.m. local time. Torrential water swept through a makeshift gold mining camp, carrying away tents and equipment. Search teams have since worked tirelessly in hazardous terrain to locate victims, with bodies being recovered over several days. One victim was found on May 18, five on May 19, three on May 20, and another five on May 21.
Of the 15 confirmed fatalities, eight have been identified, while seven others are still undergoing identification procedures. The victims have been transported to Bhayangkara Hospital for further handling. One individual previously reported missing, a 25-year-old named Erik, was located alive and is currently safe in Kampung Kenyum.
The challenging search and recovery operation is being led by BPBD, Basarnas, TNI/POLRI, and local residents, but efforts are hampered by extreme environmental factors. Rescue teams contend with steep terrain, poor weather, swift river currents, and limited access to heavy equipment and communication tools. Freezing nighttime temperatures have further complicated the mission, affecting the health and stamina of personnel on the ground.
Emergency teams have identified several critical logistical needs to support the ongoing search and recovery operation.
Worsening weather across Indonesia
In its general disaster update for Friday, May 23, BNPB reported continued flooding and strong wind events in multiple provinces. In Barito Selatan, Central Kalimantan, flooding impacted over 6,900 residents across six villages. Triggered by heavy rains and upstream water from Murung Raya and Barito Utara, the flood submerged over 1,200 homes, damaged public facilities, and disrupted agriculture across 720 hectares. Water levels reached up to 103 centimetres, though conditions have begun to improve.
Heavy rain and strong winds battered Desa Belilik in Bangka Belitung, damaging 14 homes. Response teams provided emergency tarps and began repairs. In Klaten, Central Java, floods affected 54 households across seven villages, leading to property damage and four temporary displacements. Local officials are conducting cleanup and drain maintenance, and the provincial government has extended its disaster alert status through 31 May 2025.
BNPB continues to warn that extreme weather risks remain high in the coming days. “With the rainy season still bringing unpredictable hazards, we urge all communities to stay alert, follow official weather updates, and report emergencies promptly,” said Abdul Muhari, Ph.D., Head of BNPB’s Data, Information and Disaster Communication Center. (nsh)
Banner photo: BPBD of Central Bangka Regency conducted an assessment and handed over aid to affected residents in Belilik Village, Namang Subdistrict, Central Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Province, on Thursday (22/5). (Source: BPBD of Central Bangka Regency).
