Thousands of Indonesians are struggling for food and basic supplies after deadly floods and landslides hit Sumatra. Over 770 people have died, homes have been buried, bridges washed away, and transportation links severed. Relief efforts are underway, but damaged roads and ongoing rains are making aid distribution extremely difficult.
In Sibolga, residents waited hours in scorching sun for limited rice supplies provided by the government and military. Many towns remain cut off with no electricity, little access to markets, and scarce fuel and water. People reported looting minimarkets as desperation grew in the absence of sufficient aid.
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The Indonesian government has tried to ease the crisis with rice handouts and fuel support. Recipients were marked to prevent hoarding, while women and men carried 50-kilogram sacks on their heads and backs. Humanitarian groups warn that continued rains could worsen shortages and hamper rescue efforts further.
Local residents described the situation as unprecedented. Stores remain closed due to power outages, and essentials like cooking oil and fuel are hard to find. People queued for hours to access water, gasoline, and limited government aid, highlighting the severe disruption of daily life.
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Despite the hardships, affected residents remain resilient. Many expressed determination to survive, understanding that despair would not help. Authorities continue relief and rescue operations, but long-term recovery will require sustained aid and infrastructure repair.