Severe Flooding Strikes Padang, West Sumatra Amid Continuous Rainfall

Severe flooding has once again struck Padang, the capital of West Sumatra, following continuous heavy rainfall that began on Saturday, October 10, 2026. The flooding has primarily affected two districts, Kuranji and Koto Tangah, where local authorities are currently engaged in evacuation efforts to rescue residents trapped by rising waters.

According to Hendri Zulviton, the head of the Padang Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), the focus of the response teams is on saving lives. He stated that their priority right now is to evacuate residents who are trapped. The agency has reported that the hardest-hit areas include Guo Lapau Munggu in Kuranji and Lumin Park and Kampung Apa in Koto Tangah, both of which have a history of severe flooding incidents.

In Kuranji, residents have been forced to seek refuge on rooftops as floodwaters inundate their homes. Videos shared by locals show water levels rising rapidly, breaching property barriers. The flooding in these areas is the fourth event since November 2025, when a similar disaster resulted in loss of life and extensive damage.

Rescue operations are being coordinated by BPBD alongside search and rescue teams. According to Tri Desyu, the field commander for the rescue team, around 40 to 55 individuals have already been evacuated to safer locations. He said that evacuation sites are being selected in higher areas based on coordination with local community leaders.

As of now, the exact number of casualties and the extent of property damage remain unclear, as rescue operations are ongoing. The flooding has also disrupted transportation routes, particularly on the By Pass road near Siti Rahma Hospital, where vehicles are unable to pass due to high water levels.