North Sumatra

North Sumatra, a province in Indonesia, has recently experienced catastrophic environmental disasters, primarily floods and landslides. These events, occurring in late 2025 and early 2026, have resulted in significant loss of life (over 1,000 deaths), displacement of communities, and widespread destruction of property. The floods have been linked to deforestation, prompting lawsuits against six companies accused of environmental harm. The disasters have also impacted the critically endangered Tapanuli orangutan, causing significant damage to its habitat. Furthermore, a China-backed hydropower project in the region is now in limbo as the Indonesian government reviews permits due to concerns about forest damage. Despite the devastation, communities are attempting to rebuild, with some holding Christmas mass amid the wreckage. The events highlight the vulnerability of North Sumatra to environmental disasters and raise concerns about sustainable development and environmental protection in the region.