Papua New Guinea Deadly Landslides: Many Homes Buried, as Rescue Operation Continues

In Papua New Guinea, a major landslides buried houses in Enga province, requiring search and rescue operations to find survivors. Reports noted that over 670 people died.

According to officials, the landslide occurred in an isolated Enga district. While there is no final estimate of total casualties yet, other reports noted that over 2,000 people are believed to be buried in deadly landslides.

The government deployed rescue and search operations to locate possible survivors. The area is at risk of landslides and flash floods, which could worsen due to excessive rainfall.

Deadly landslides in Papua New Guinea: Latest Information

Papua New Guinea's Enga Province. Deadly landslides occurred in Papua New Guinea's Enga Province, burying many homes. Search and rescue operations were deployed in the affected areas, but the massive and falling rocks are another concern. Reports show that over 670 people are feared to die from landslides. (Photo : by STR/AFP via Getty Images)

The situation has become challenging due to massive rocks being thrown at houses. Without power tools and effective machines, rescue efforts would be harder, as time is the most important thing to save for possible survivors.

The report highlights that the area is still unstable, which could threaten other rescuers and personnel deployed in the area. Rocks were reportedly sliding and falling in the area. Another aspect of concern is the weather situation, which makes search and rescue operations challenging.

When the devastating landslides occurred, many residents were sleeping. The chance of evacuating was slim, and communities could suffer more from damage.

Due to falling rocks and landslide-affected areas, transportation has become difficult. The country, experiencing the wettest weather outlook, is vulnerable to dangerous weather events, including flooding, rainfall, mudslides, and landslides.

Additionally, climate change is attributed to changing weather conditions or frequent rainfall, which has exacerbated the flash floods and landslides in the region.

Poorer communities are vulnerable to flooding and landslide concerns, particularly villagers in provincial and mountainous areas. As a result, effective weather prediction and monitoring for landslide-prone areas is essential to mitigate widespread damage to life and properties.

Also Read: Indonesia Flooding: Rescue Efforts Intensify; 67 Dead and Many Still Missing After Floods

How to stay safe from landslide and extreme weather risks in Papua New Guinea

The latest weather report warns of an increasing number of casualties from the recent landslides in Papua New Guinea. Staying updated with the latest forecasts is essential to stay informed about potential weather threats. A battery-powered radio is also helpful, signaling a possible rainy outlook that can trigger landslides.

During heavy rains or torrential downpours, people near rivers or mountainous areas should keep alert for mudslides and flash flood potential, especially if a similar situation occured in the past.

After landslides, affected residents or communities should be careful with falling debris, or damaged homes. Additionally, if there are family members who are missing, it is best to inform nearby authorities about missing individuals.

Additionally, investing in effective weather prediction is essential to inform communities of possible weather concerns, which can trigger landslides. This way, authorities can better inform people about potential weather threats, including flooding and rainfall.