Indonesia: At Least 10 Killed In Sulawesi Landslides

Indonesia: At least 10 killed in Sulawesi landslides < br />

2013-02-19 11:52:53 GMT+7 (ICT)

MANADO, INDONESIA (BNO NEWS) -- At least ten people were killed after rain-triggered landslides struck North Sulawesi in northern Indonesia, local authorities said Sunday.

Heavy rainfall caused a number of landslides, while seven subdistricts were affected in Manado, the provincial capital of North Sulawesi on Sunday.

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) spokesman, Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, confirmed that nine people were killed after being buried in a landslide, while a tenth person died after being swept away by floodwaters, the Jakarta Globe reported.

however, Sutopo added that the number of fatal victims could increase, as landslides were reported in several areas. In addition, operations to evacuate residents has been hampered by flood waters, which rose to up to two meters high in some areas.

Over 1,200 people have been displaced with more than 1,000 residential homes being flooded in seven districts, Sutopo said. The districts include Tikala, Paal Dua, Singkil, Tuminting, Wanea, Sario and Wenang.

As emergency operations continue with military and police personnel working in the affected areas, local authorities have setup shelters and aid.

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