Flash Floods in Indonesia Leave 64 Dead

Heavy rains caused flash floods and landslides in the West Papua Province of Indonesia on Monday, leaving more than 50 people dead. Officials said Wednesday that some 3,000 people have been displaced by the flooding.

Flood water swept through at least 8 villages, leaving a total of 64 people dead and 83 others injured. An official from the country’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency said 27 people are missing. Rescue crews are searching for survivors.

Many buildings, bridges and roads were damaged by the water and debris. Communication lines were down in some areas. The Ministry of Health sent relief supplies to the affected villages. The supplies include food, clothing, tents and blankets.

U.S. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton released a statement Wednesday offering condolences to flood victims. “On behalf of the people of the United States, I express our deep sympathy over the destruction and loss of life caused by the flooding and landslides in eastern Indonesia, particularly in the province of West Papua. We send our heartfelt condolences to those affected by this tragedy, and to all the people of Indonesia,” Clinton said.

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