Floods and landslides in central Java

Torrential rains over 25 and 26 December have caused the Bengawan Solo river in central Java to overflow. The densely populated city of Solo has been badly flooded, inundating houses and displacing around 20,000 people.

Oxfam's response

Oxfam, alongside the local authorities and Indonesian Red Cross, have mounted an immediate response through some of our local partners, distributing emergency survival items and ensuring clean water supplies. We expect to target 10,000 people over the next few days, and are continuing to assess the need for additional support.

Heavy rains also caused serious landslides in Karanganyar district not far from Solo. Around 75 people have been confirmed dead so far, and there is extensive localised damage to houses. Rescue operations are going on, and people are being given shelter and food by the local authorities. Oxfam has sent in a team of expert staff to the area to assess what help we might be able to give, and are closely in touch with local partners. We should know more over the next few days.

December 2007