Amid the Wounds of Cyclone Senyar, Udayana University Faculty of Medicine Cares for the People of Tukka, Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra

Cyclone Senyar that struck parts of Sumatra left profound impacts on the communities of Tukka Subdistrict, Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra. Flash floods triggered by extreme rainfall not only damaged the natural environment and infrastructure, but also disrupted the lives of thousands of residents, who have been forced to cope with loss and severe limitations.

Based on preliminary reports, the disaster resulted in 127 fatalities, 37 people reported missing, and more than 4,200 residents displaced. Physical damage affected various facilities, including 14 health facilities, 24 schools, three bridges, and a main road that was cut off. No fewer than 8,365 houses were reported damaged, ranging from severe to moderate and minor levels. Rice fields and plantations were buried under flood debris, river channels shifted, and clean water and sanitation systems were severely damaged.

In Tukka Subdistrict itself, the impact was particularly severe. A total of 27 residents lost their lives, 49 people were reported missing, and 786 residents were displaced. Although the floodwaters have receded, clear traces of the disaster remain—piles of timber along the roads, mud filling homes and schools, and landslide debris covering agricultural land.

In response to these conditions, the Faculty of Medicine of Universitas Udayana (FK Unud), with the support of the Directorate General of Research and Development of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, carried out a disaster-response community service program from 21 to 27 December 2025. Health services were focused in the areas of Sipange, Hutanabolon, and Bona Lumban villages, which were among the hardest hit.

The FK Unud team consisted of 10 members from various disciplines, including Medical Education, General Surgery, Neurosurgery, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Public Health. The team composition was tailored to field needs and the availability of medical personnel as volunteers.

The services provided included medical examinations, distribution of medicines, treatment of minor injuries, and health education for children. All services were delivered directly within residential areas to ensure easy access for communities still facing mobility constraints.

A total of 227 residents received health services. The most common complaints identified were acute respiratory infections, hypertension, skin diseases, and musculoskeletal pain. Screening results also identified an elderly patient with suspected breast cancer, who was promptly referred to a designated referral health facility with assistance from local community health center personnel.

In addition to medical services, the team provided health education to 185 children, particularly on intestinal worm infections and personal protection, as part of promotive and preventive efforts. In the Christmas season, children affected by the disaster also received simple care packages as a form of psychosocial support and encouragement during challenging times.

The implementation of this program was carried out through multi-level coordination with the Health Crisis Center of the Indonesian Ministry of Health, the North Sumatra Provincial Health Office, the Central Tapanuli Regency Health Office, Pandan Regional General Hospital, and the Central Tapanuli Volunteer Desk.

Direct field experience at the disaster site showed that the need for basic health services remains high even 1.5 months after the disaster occurred. Communities continue to require not only treatment for flood-related illnesses, but also sustained access to essential health services amid limited access and environmental conditions that have yet to fully recover.

Through this disaster-response community service initiative, the Faculty of Medicine of Universitas Udayana reaffirmed its commitment to being present through community-based health services, while also strengthening the role of medical education institutions in humanitarian responses in disaster-affected areas.