Sumatra Floods as of December 17, 2025: Thousands of Lives Lost, Dozens of Regions Still in Emergency Status

Sumatra Floods as of December 17, 2025: Thousands of Lives Lost, Dozens of Regions Still in Emergency Status

The major floods that have struck the Sumatra region as of December 17, 2025, show an extremely alarming situation. Preliminary data record 1,053 fatalities, 200 people still missing, and 606,040 residents forced to evacuate after their homes and settlements were submerged by floodwaters.

To date, 25 cities and regencies across three provinces have been placed under emergency response status, namely Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.

Emergency-Affected Areas

Aceh Province (12 regions):
Aceh Utara, Aceh Tamiang, Aceh Timur, Bener Meriah, Bireuen, Pidie Jaya, Aceh Tengah, Gayo Lues, Langsa, Lhokseumawe, Nagan Raya, Pidie.

North Sumatra Province (8 regions):
Central Tapanuli, South Tapanuli, Sibolga City, North Tapanuli, Langkat, Medan City, Humbang Hasundutan, South Nias.

West Sumatra Province (5 regions):
Agam, Padang Pariaman, Tanah Datar, Pesisir Selatan, Pariaman City.

Not Just Numbers

This tragedy is not merely about statistics. Every number represents a life, a family that has lost a loved one, and a human dream swept away by disaster. Thousands of residents are now surviving in evacuation shelters amid limited logistics, the threat of disease, and an uncertain future.

Local governments, volunteers, and various elements of society continue to carry out evacuations, distribute aid, and search for those still missing. However, extreme weather conditions and damaged infrastructure pose major challenges on the ground.

The situation continues to evolve, and people in vulnerable areas are urged to remain vigilant and follow official instructions from the authorities.

Residents of Lesten Village Weep in Isolation, Disaster Aid Insufficient to Last a Day

 Flash floods in Sumatra, Indonesia

Residents of Lesten Village Weep in Isolation, Disaster Aid Insufficient to Last a Day

Heartbreaking cries echoed through Lesten Village, a remote area in Pining Subdistrict, Gayo Lues Regency, as disaster-affected residents realized that the assistance they received was far from adequate. A total of 97 households received only emergency aid consisting of two cans of sardines and two packs of instant noodles per family—an amount that is not even enough to meet one day’s food needs.

“We’re not asking for much, we just want to be able to eat,” said a mother in a trembling voice. On worn tarpaulins serving as temporary shelter floors, mothers were seen rationing food in extremely small portions. Children could only watch as their parents struggled to make the little food available last for several meals. Silence fell over the area as residents came to terms with the contents of the aid they received, turning into a collective grief.

Lesten Village is known as one of the most isolated areas in Gayo Lues. Extremely limited road access, compounded by post-disaster conditions, has severely hampered the distribution of logistics. Jasad, a local resident, revealed that much of the aid is still stuck at a relief post in Uring Village.

“All the aid is held there. We feel forgotten, even though we are the most affected,” he asserted. The relief post is located approximately 60 kilometers from Lesten Village, across difficult and rugged terrain.

This situation highlights serious inequality in the disaster aid distribution system. Areas that are easier to reach tend to receive assistance more quickly, while isolated villages like Lesten must wait longer while enduring severe shortages.

Local community leaders believe that what the residents of Lesten Village are experiencing is a grim reflection of disaster response in remote regions. The lack of aid is not merely a logistical issue, but also a matter of justice and genuine concern for the most vulnerable communities.

The events in Lesten serve as a reminder that disasters not only damage the natural environment but also expose long-neglected inequalities in development. Two cans of sardines have now become a stark symbol of the wide gap between policies on paper and realities on the ground.

Residents hope their cries will serve as a humanitarian alarm, compelling the government to be truly present—not merely through statistical reports and ceremonial aid distributions.

(Rauf Ariga)

What Happens If You Eat a Ripe Banana Before Breakfast?

 What Happens If You Eat a Ripe Banana Before Breakfast?

Many people skip breakfast because they are in a hurry or do not have time to prepare food. In such situations, bananas often become a quick and practical choice. But what actually happens if you eat only a ripe banana before breakfast? Is it good for your health, or does it cause certain effects?

1. A Quick Source of Energy

Ripe bananas are rich in simple carbohydrates such as glucose, fructose, and sucrose. When eaten in the morning, these natural sugars are quickly absorbed by the body, providing instant energy. This is especially helpful if you feel weak or low on energy after waking up.

2. Helps Improve Digestion

Bananas contain natural fiber and prebiotics that support gut health. Eating a banana in the morning can help improve digestion and promote regular bowel movements.

3. Maintains Electrolyte Balance

Bananas are high in potassium, which plays an important role in maintaining the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance. After several hours of sleep without food or water, eating a banana may help restore this balance.

4. Boosts Mood and Brain Function

Bananas contain vitamin B6, which helps in the production of serotonin, a hormone responsible for improving mood. That is why eating a banana in the morning can help you feel more relaxed, positive, and focused.

5. Possible Drawbacks of Relying Only on Bananas

Although bananas are healthy, they do not provide enough protein and healthy fats to be a complete breakfast on their own. As a result, you may feel hungry again sooner. Blood sugar levels may also rise quickly and then drop, which can cause low energy later in the morning.

6. Not Ideal for Everyone with Stomach Issues

For some people with certain stomach problems, such as acid reflux or severe gastritis, eating a banana on an empty stomach may cause discomfort, bloating, or nausea. While this does not affect everyone, it is something to be aware of.

Tips to Make Bananas Healthier for Breakfast

To make your breakfast more balanced, combine bananas with:

Milk or yogurt for added protein

Oats or whole-grain bread for longer-lasting energy

Nuts or peanut butter for healthy fats.

Conclusion

Eating a ripe banana before breakfast can provide quick energy, support digestion, and improve mood. However, it should not be your only breakfast choice. For the best results, pair it with protein and healthy fats to ensure your body receives complete nutrition.