Following a disastrous landslide in Indonesia’s Central Java province that killed at least 19 people and left seven more missing, hundreds of rescuers are sifting through heavy mud and debris.

In a mountainous region close to Pekalongan city, Monday’s landslide was caused by heavy rains and wrecked bridges, buried cars, and devoured houses.

Speaking on behalf of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, or BNPB, Abdul Muhari stated, “The joint search and rescue team managed to find and evacuate two bodies this morning, bringing the death toll to 19.” “There are now only seven people who are missing.”

According to a statement from Indonesia’s search and rescue organization, Basarnas, 13 people were also injured in the tragedy.

While about 200 personnel from various agencies, including police, troops, and volunteers, are working diligently to find survivors, heavy gear has been sent to open access routes for emergency teams.

The worst-hit area was confirmed by local official Muhammad Yulian Akbar to be Kasimpar village, where a coffee shop that provided shelter from the rain was slammed by the landslide.

Ongoing rain has hindered efforts, causing searches to be sporadically halted Tuesday. According to BNPB’s Muhari, there will likely be moderate rain in the upcoming days, which raises the possibility of more landslides or floods.

The district is under a two-week state of emergency, according to local authorities. “The search for victims and helping impacted residents remain the top priorities,” Akbar said.

Landslides are common in Indonesia during the rainy season, which runs from November to April. However, because of climate change, which has increased storms and rainfall, these disasters have become more intense and unpredictable.

67 people died in May 2024 as a result of flash floods in West Sumatra brought on by intense rainfall and volcanic debris from Mount Marapi.

Indonesia is in deep mourning as a result of the tragedy. Affected families are being supported, and those who have been displaced by the crisis are receiving relief and emergency shelters.

As rescue efforts continue in a race against time to locate any surviving individuals, officials continue to advise vigilance.