Indonesia tsunami - live: Hundreds dead amid desperate search for missing, as survivors describe horror
'I was afraid I would die'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A tsunami in Indonesia has killed at least 222 people and injured hundreds, following an underwater landslide caused by the eruption of island volcano Krakatoa.
Hundreds of buildings were “heavily damaged” when the tsunami struck the Sunda Strait and the nearby islands of Java and Sumatra late on Saturday. Thousands fled after the wave hit and it is unclear how many residents are missing.
Indonesia’s disaster mitigation agency said that the tsunami was exacerbated by an abnormally high tide, caused by the full moon. A tide warning remains in place through 25 December.
Follow below for live updates:
Please wait a moment for the live blog to load
Roads in Java and Sumatra remain blocked by water, floating cars and debris, impeding rescue efforts.
Witnesses said that water from the tsunami surged 15-20m inland.
Rescue efforts are continuing as night falls across Java and Sumatra on Sunday. Workers and ambulances are finding it difficult to reach many areas because of poor visibility and travelling conditions.
A tsunami warning siren that sent panicked residents in Java's Banten province running to safety was likely caused by a technical malfunction.
Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency said that it had not triggered the warning, which was heard on Sunday.
Banten was badly affected by Saturday's tsunami, with some of the worst hit areas including beaches popular with tourists and the Ujung Kulon National Park.
Debris from damaged buildings and cars seen near the beach in Anyer, in Indonesia's Banten province.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments