An earthquake kills at least 63 people and destroys more than 87,000 homes in Java, Indonesia
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
The 2009 West Java earthquake was a 7.0 magnitude earthquake that occurred on September 2, 2009 at 14:55 local time in West Java, Indonesia,which killed at least 63 people. Dozens are said to be missing.More than 87,000 homes have been destroyed.
The quake was felt in the capital Jakarta although damage there was minimal. Rescue efforts are underway to retrieve those trapped under landslides. It is Indonesia's deadliest earthquake since 2006.
The earthquake's focus lies close to the major fault plane where the Indo-Australian Plate is being subducted beneath the Eurasian Plate. However, the focal mechanisms determined for this event shows reverse faulting at a high angle to the trend of the subduction zone and it has been suggested that the cause was deformation within the descending slab. At least thirty-two people were initially reported to have been killed by the quake. Buildings in Bandung and Tasikmalaya, the town closest to the epicenter, were damaged, and hundreds of people were injured. An estimated 18,300 homes and offices were earlier thought to have been damaged. This figure later rose to 87,000+.
The quake was felt as far away as Jakarta, Indonesia's capital; causing evacuation in many office buildings and hotels.
At least 11 houses were covered by a landslide in Cianjur. Around 37 inhabitants, including 13 children, of Cikangkareng were affected by a landslide caused by the quake and are thought to have been buried beneath rubble. The area has become a breeding ground for voyeurs who are flocking to the area to take photographs of the destruction and victims. At least one hospital was destroyed by the quake. Confirmed death tolls by area were issued by The Jakarta Post on 4 September. in Cianjur 21 people a was killed while in Garut 10 were recorded and in Tasikmalaya 9. in Bandung 8 was killed while in Ciamis At least 1.in Sukabumi At least 1 while in Bogor At least 1. also in West Bandung At least 1
Residents fearful of aftershocks are staying indoors. 4.9 magnitude, on September 2, 2009, at 16:28 local time
Some roads were cleared on 4 September. Aid is also arriving at the affected areas.
The Bandung Health Agency says nearby victims of the quake will be eligible for free medical treatment for at least a month. Rescuers have been equipped with machinery but are struggling. 34 doctors and 52 paramedics have been sent to at least 12 districts. More than 25,000 affected people are being housed in makeshift tents.
