Jakarta, Jan. 7 -- Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) declared an emergency response in the Siau, Tagulandang, and Biaro (Sitaro) Islands District, North Sulawesi, after flash floods killed at least 16 people and displaced hundreds.

BNPB Disaster Data and Communication Head Abdul Muhari said Wednesday the local government issued a Hydrometeorological Disaster Emergency Response Status from Jan. 5 to 18, 2026.

The status, outlined in Sitaro District Head Decree Number 1/2026, allows authorities to accelerate emergency response in the affected areas, he added.

Muhari said rescue efforts are ongoing, with teams prioritizing missing persons and meeting the basic needs of affected residents.

As of Tuesday afternoon, BNP...