Each week, the World Health Organization Health Action in Crises in Geneva produces information highlights on the health aspects of selected humanitarian crises. Drawing on the various WHO programmes, contributions cover activities from field and country offices and the support provided by WHO regional offices and Headquarters. The mandate of the WHO Departments specifically concerned with Emergency and Humanitarian Action in Crises is to increase the effectiveness of the WHO contribution to crisis preparedness and response, transition and recovery. This note, which is not exhaustive, is designed for internal use and does not reflect any official position of the WHO Secretariat.
INDONESIA - SUMATRA EARTHQUAKE
Assessments and Events
- On 12 September a powerful earthquake measuring 8.2 on the Richter Scale struck off the coast of the Sumatra Island. Tsunami warnings were repeatedly issued and lifted for the entire Indian Ocean area including Indonesia, the Maldives, Mozambique, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
- Up to 17 deaths are reported as well as damage to power supply and communication systems in Bengkulu. OCHA reports several buildings collapsed in Padang and major damage in the island of Mentawi (off the Sumatra coast).
- Patients were evacuated from Bengkulu Hospital to field hospital tents.
- The Government has not made any request for international support so far.
Actions
- The MoH Crisis Centre and WHO are ready to respond with emergency supplies from the Jakarta Joint Emergency Depot.
- The IASC Country Team reviewed the information on the impact of the earthquakes, and concluded that a major international relief operation is not foreseen at this point in time. However, agencies in the country will continue to support government efforts in responding to this disaster.
- OCHA is liaising with the Government disaster response agency.
- Australia is providing an initial contribution of US$ 50 000 to support deployment of Indonesian emergency medical teams and transport critical relief items to the affected areas.