Nearly 100 Indonesians evacuated due to flooding in Australia

[News_Editor]

Nearly 100 Indonesians evacuated due to flooding in Australia

2011-01-14 02:26:43 GMT+7 (ICT)

JAKARTA, INDONESIA (BNO NEWS) -- Indonesia's Foreign Ministry on Thursday informed that at least 97 Indonesians have been evacuated from Australia due to major flooding, the Jakarta Globe reported.

"Until Thursday morning, a total of 97 Indonesians have been evacuated. They are in a good condition," Foreign Ministry Spokesman Michael Tene said, adding that the 97 Indonesians were living in the Queensland area, the most affected by flash flooding which have killed at least 15 people.

The Indonesian Embassy in Sydney is currently also monitoring Indonesian citizens who are residing in the Brisbane area. The Consulate, however, assured that all Indonesians have enough food and are in good health.

Since the situation in Queensland was declared a national emergency, Indonesia has pledged $1 million to Australia to help aid victims and assist in relief efforts.

The heavy rains and flash flooding have been described as the worst disaster in Brisbane's history. In Lockyer Valley, flooding washed away many homes and it is feared that they will never be habitable again.

Rescue teams have been reaching affected residents with the aid of helicopters and heavy vehicles from Australia's Defense Force and Federal Police. However, the harsh weather conditions have thwarted the Red Cross' rescue efforts, which has not been able to get into the affected areas.

In addition, the severe flooding has destroyed vital food crops in the northeastern Australian region. Authorities have indicated that the rains will continue increasing in the upcoming weekend.

Australia has launched the Queensland Flood Recovery which is led by Major General Mick Slater as appointed by Prime Minister Julia Gillard on Tuesday. The recovery force will oversee the millions of dollars in aid and services received from the international community.

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