Floods Submerge 5 Villages, North Gorontalo Declares Emergency Response Status

The North Gorontalo Regency Government, in Gorontalo Province, has declared an emergency response status for the next 30 days following flash floods that submerged five villages.

“The Regent of North Gorontalo has established the Emergency Response Status for flood disasters in North Gorontalo Regency through Decree Number 116/V/2026, effective for 30 days, from 26 May to 24 June 2026,” stated Abdul Muhari, Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Centre, in a statement on Wednesday (3/6).

The flash floods occurred on Tuesday (26/5) due to high-intensity rainfall and the overflowing of the Didingga River, with water levels reaching between 40 and 200 centimetres. Five villages in the Biau District were affected: Biau, Bualo, Omuto, Didingga, and Luhuto.

“A total of 2,817 people have been affected by this incident. Three houses were reported washed away, 20 houses sustained heavy damage, and another 826 units were impacted,” he revealed.

Currently, the North Gorontalo Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) team, alongside the TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces), Polri (National Police), and relevant parties, are conducting post-flood recovery operations.

“All authorities are currently setting up community kitchens and distributing food logistics to the affected residents,” he said.

Nevertheless, Muhari noted that while water levels at the flood sites have reportedly receded, mud and debris remain.

“An update on the flash flood conditions in North Gorontalo Regency, Gorontalo Province, as of Monday (1/6), reports that the floodwaters have receded, leaving behind wood debris and mud in the residential areas of the affected citizens,” he stated.