Jakarta: Indonesian officials reported on Tuesday that flash floods in North Sulawesi province have led to the deaths of at least 14 individuals who were swept away by the currents, while rescue workers continue efforts to locate missing persons.

According to Thai News Agency, heavy rain on Monday morning triggered flash flooding on Siau Island in the Siau Tagulandang Viaro district. On Tuesday, a team of 16 rescue workers was deployed to search for four missing individuals. In addition to the fatalities, 18 people sustained injuries. Authorities are currently gathering more information from local residents amid concerns that the number of missing individuals may be higher than initially reported.

A spokesperson for the rescue team also mentioned that major transportation routes are obstructed by rocks, debris, and thick mud. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the National Disaster Relief Agency announced that at least 444 people have been evacuated to schools and churches in the affected area following the flooding. To expedite the clearing of blocked routes, authorities have deployed excavators to the region.

According to Julius Selvanus, the governor of North Sulawesi province, the floodwaters have caused damage to hundreds of homes and government buildings.