Death and Disappearance in Sudden Floods Around Lake Toba, Indonesia

The National Disaster Management Agency in Indonesia announced the death of one person and the disappearance of 11 others due to sudden floods near Lake Toba in North Sumatra. It stated that dozens of people have been evacuated and rescue efforts are still ongoing. The agency mentioned in a statement released late Saturday that heavy rainfall followed by sudden floods hit the lakeside area on Friday evening, causing damage to dozens of homes, a church, a school, and a hotel. Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world and a popular tourist destination for local and foreign tourists. Photos published by the agency showed that the floods swept large stones, trees, and sediment down the slopes, completely submerging some houses. The agency stated that about 350 people with heavy equipment are involved in the search and rescue efforts, while approximately 200 people have been evacuated.