Tsunami Strikes Indonesia Island of Java
Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Off the Coast of Java, Indonesia
Overview
On July 17, 2006, at 3:24 p.m. local time, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck beneath the Indian Ocean approximately 150 miles from the western coast of Java, Indonesia. The earthquake was felt as far away as the capital city, Jakarta, where buildings shook, but major damage was avoided. The earthquake triggered a tsunami, approximately 6 feet high, that reportedly destroyed buildings and some hotels in the area.
Initial reports of related deaths were low; however, that number continues to climb. In addition, thousands of people have been displaced as they fled the coast. The hardest hit area was Pangandaran, a popular beach resort.
Response of the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement
International Federation of Red Cross/Red Crescent Societies and American Red Cross
Relief workers from the American Red Cross have been sent to the affected area as part of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (Federation) relief team.
Initial efforts will focus on damage assessments and relief activities, such as coordination and the distribution of emergency relief supplies. The American Red Cross staff have been working with the Federation in Java since the May earthquake and are participating in this initial assessment. In addition, the American Red Cross has had long term recovery programs in Aceh since the December 2004 tsunami.
The Indonesian Red Cross Society/Palang Merah Indonesia
The Indonesian Red Cross Society, known as Palang Merah Indonesia (PMI) immediately began its response to the earthquake and tsunami. PMI was well-positioned to respond since diaster relief experts have been in the area since the earthquake of May 27.
More information will become available as the initial assessments are completed.
A Coordinated Effort
The American Red Cross role in responding to an international disaster is different from its response to a disaster in the United States. It works in a coordinated manner with many global partners, taking into consideration how the organization can provide unique, specialized assistance in the areas where it can best help.
The American Red Cross works alongside the other Red Cross societies from around the world. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (Federation) helps coordinate the response efforts of the various societies to minimize a duplication of efforts and ensure coverage of relief needs.
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