Survivors of Indonesian tsunami helped by Islamic Relief

Islamic Relief is helping families in desperate need following a terrifying tsunami in Indonesia, providing food, water, and blankets to the displaced.

Islamic Relief is also providing some medicine and other basic supplies for the survivors of the disaster, which struck popular tourist spots on the Sundae Strait overnight on December 22.

Believed to have been caused by underwater landslides following volcanic eruptions, the giant waves hit at around 9.20pm. There was no warning.

More than 280 people are now known to have died, and more than 1,000 were injured. A further 11,000 have been displaced. With more people still missing, the number of casualties is expected to rise further.

People have said that they ran from their homes in the pouring rain in panic. Some have already started going back but others are too afraid of what they will find and worry that loved ones or neighbors may not have been able to escape the destruction.

Across three regions – Pandegland, South Lampung and Serang beaches – hundreds of homes and buildings are thought to have been destroyed or damaged. The Indonesian disaster management agency has reported damage to hotels, food stalls and 350 boats – all important to local livelihoods.

The full scale of the disaster continues to emerge, but right now the most urgent needs are for food, shelter, medical assistance and essential items like hygiene kits.

Survivors are being helped by emergency teams from Islamic Relief Indonesia and their local partner PKPU.

The tsunami is the latest in a series of disasters to hit Indonesia. About three months ago, an earthquake triggered a tsunami and landslides which killed more than 2,000 people.

As well as providing humanitarian supplies in the aftermath of the September disaster, Islamic Relief has been helping local families to earn a living once more – and we are committed to building shelters and a school.

Original source: Islamic Relief
Published on 23 December 2018