Durian. Torrential rains that poured in North Luwu regency in Indonesia’s South Sulawesi has caused at least 10 people have died and dozen others are still missing, forcing the authority to stop the operation of a local airport on July 14.
Three rivers – Masamba, Rongkang and Rada – were overflowed on July 13 evening due to high intensity rains, flooding six districts in North Luwu, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) said on July 14. The six affected districts are Masamba, Sabbang, South Baebunta, Malangke and North Malangke where almost 5,000 households experience the impact of the flood.
Mud have covered main roads that connecting affected areas with neighboring districts; cut transportation connectivity, electricity blackout.
Data from the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) as of July 14 afternoon, 10 survivors and 10 bodies have been found, while 46 others are still missing.
The survivors have been taken to Masamba hospital for medical treatment. Search and rescue operation continues to find those who are still missing.
Aviation authority must close the operation of Andi Jemma Airport in Massamba starting from July 14 morning until July 29 morning because runway of the airport is covered by mud.
Director General of Aviation at the Transportation Ministry Novie Riyanto has ordered airport authority in Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi province, to assist Andi Jemma Airport, the ministry said.
Airplanes in the airport are secured as its apron is not affected by the disaster, Mohammad Sabu, head of Andi Jemma Airport said.
