24 Dec 2018 | 08:29 AM UTC
Indonesia: At least 281 killed following tsunami /update 2
Indonesian officials confirm at least 280 fatalities in the Sunda Strait as of December 24 after a tsunami hit the area; recovery efforts ongoing
Event
The Indonesian National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed at least 281 fatalities and over 1016 injuries as of Monday, December 24, after a tsunami wave hit the Sunda Strait on December 22. However, BNPB officials have not confirmed that any foreign nationals were killed in the incident. According to disaster officials, the tsunami has most significantly affected the coastal areas of Pandeglang, Serang, South Lampung, and Tanggamus regencies in western Java and southern Sumatra. At least 57 people are still missing, and the casualty count is expected to rise as recovery efforts continue in the impacted areas. Around 600 buildings including homes and hotels were heavily damaged by the wave. BNPB officials reported that heavy equipment is being deployed to remove debris and assist in recovery operations. Significant infrastructure damage is likely in the affected areas, including to telecommunication and transportation services. In addition, there is an increased risk of disease outbreaks, and potential food and water shortages. Furthermore, local authorities have warned to avoid coastal areas until at least December 27 particularly the southern coasts of Sumatra, Java and Bali islands, the southern coasts of West and East Nusa Tenggara provinces, and the northern coasts of Papua and West Papua provinces due to high tide forecast. The Indonesia Agency for Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics (BMKG) has forecast waves reaching to between 1.25 - 2.5 m (4-8 ft) around Indonesia as well as strong winds in the coming days.
Context
A three-foot surge of water hit the Sunda Strait at approximately 16:30 on Saturday, December 22. Officials believe that the tsunami was caused by an undersea landslide following an eruption at the Krakatoa volcano. Authorities did not issue a tsunami warning because no earthquake was recorded prior to the wave hitting the coast.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and anticipate infrastructure damage and disruptions, including for transportation and telecommunication.
