Flash floods caused by torrential rain has led to at least 87 people losing their lives in Indonesia. Dozens have gone missing. The heavy rains also caused landslides. 21 people have died in East Timor, which was affected by the rains too. East Timor is a tiny island nation, located between Indonesia and Australia. Rescue efforts were hampered as cyclones continued pounding the affected area.
Homes have been destroyed and trees uprooted forcing thousands into shelters. Small communities have been turned into wastelands of mud.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo expressed “deepest condolences” over the devastation, an AP report reads.
“I understand the deep sorrow suffered by our brothers and sisters because of this disaster,” he said.
Alfons Hada Bethan, head of the East Flores disaster agency said, “The evacuees are spread out. There are hundreds in each sub-district but many others are staying at home,” said. Bethan said the evacuees need food, medicine and blankets. The death toll is expected to rise.
Local officials in Lembata Regency deployed heavy equipment to reopen the roads.
