Indonesia Hit by 6.3 Earthquake as Flash Floods and Landslides Kill 28 in North Sumatra

Indonesia was struck by a powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake on Thursday, adding fresh strain to a nation already facing deadly flash floods and landslides triggered by days of torrential rainfall. According to Reuters, the quake struck near Aceh province at a depth of 10 km and did not generate tsunami risk. Authorities have not reported any casualties or structural damage so far.

Indonesia, located on the volatile Pacific “Ring of Fire,” regularly experiences intense seismic and volcanic activity. However, the latest tremor comes at a time when the country is struggling with widespread flooding that has claimed more than 25 lives and displaced thousands.

Flash Floods Leave Homes Submerged, Dozens Missing

The worst-hit region, North Sumatra province, has been battling severe flash floods since relentless rains poured across the region following Cyclone Senyar’s landfall on Wednesday. At least 28 people have died, and dozens are still missing as rescue teams attempt to reach remote and cut-off areas.

Continuous rainfall caused major rivers to burst their banks, sweeping mud, rocks and uprooted trees into residential areas. Dramatic videos on social media showed homes being engulfed by rushing water and families scrambling to higher ground. Roads were left clogged with debris, slowing down emergency evacuations.

Six subdivisions have been severely impacted, with reports of homes being crushed by landslides in Central Tapanuli and nearly 2,000 houses flooded. In South Tapanuli, falling trees killed eight people as heavy rain loosened soil and destabilised slopes.

More than 2,800 residents have been evacuated to temporary shelters as the government struggles to restore mobility, communication and access to isolated communities.

Indonesia typically experiences peak monsoon rainfall between October and March, a period that frequently triggers deadly floods and puts millions at risk across riverbanks and landslide-prone highlands. Officials warn that continued rain in the coming days could worsen the situation.