Indonesia: Earthquake Situation Report No. 5

This report was issued by OCHA New York, based on inputs from OCHA Indonesia. It covers the period from 03/10/09 to 04/10/09. The next report will be issued on or around 05/10/09.

I. HIGHLIGHTS/KEY PRIORITIES

- On 30 September, a powerful earthquake struck West Sumatra Province. Padang and Pariaman are the worst affected areas.

- On 4 October, the Government confirmed 603 deaths, and 179,629 houses as damaged.

- The Deputy Governor of West Sumatra highlights the need for 10,000 family tents.

- In addition to emergency shelter, food distribution, water, medical supplies and hygiene kits continue to be major priority concerns.

- The Government of Indonesia is leading the emergency response efforts, and is being complemented by the humanitarian community.

II. Situation Overview

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed the deaths of 603 people, and expects the number of casualties to increase further as thousands of people are still feared to be trapped under rubble.

The BNPB also reports 343 people as missing, 736 people as displaced, 412 as severely injured and 2,039 as slightly injured. The numbers will fluctuate as additional assessment results are compiled. The BNPB estimates a total number of 179,629 houses as damaged. While the scale of the damage is unfolding, the Deputy Governor of West Sumatra has indicated that at least 10,000 tents are needed, particularly smaller tents for individual families. HOPE Worldwide estimates that an additional 30,000 temporary shelter kits are needed in Pariaman.

Access to fuel has become easier since the introduction of the BNPB priority authorization certificate. The BNPB has reported that 60% of the power supply has been restored, and expects full restoration within one week. Water engineers have been deployed to help repair damaged infrastructure of water facilities in Padang.

School activities have resumed in Pariaman city, and are expected to resume in Padang city in the next few days, once the debris is cleared. Assessments are still being carried out about schools in rural areas.