On Friday 28th September 2018 a tsunami, triggered by a 7.5 earthquake, hit Sulawesi in Indonesia.

It is reported that more than 1,400 people have been confirmed dead, and these numbers are sadly expected to increase when new information becomes available, as some areas are still inaccessible. It is estimated that over 750,000 people are exposed to the effects of the earthquake.

Families have lost everything. Thousands of homes have collapsed and power and communication lines are down. In the aftermath of the disaster, rescue efforts have begun though access is a major challenge.

For families whose loved ones are missing, the real magnitude of the disaster is yet to be known.

Islamic Relief on the ground

IRAUS has been supporting work in Indonesia since 2000 delivering humanitarian and development activities. Our partner, Islamic Relief Worldwide in Indonesia, is already responding in Earthquake-affected Lombok, and is now assessing and responding to immediate needs in Sulawesi.

The relief efforts in Palu and Donggala will focus on supporting more than 400 affected-families (2,000 people) with life saving medical help, food packs, drinkable water, temporary shelters, sanitation and hygiene kits, as well as temporary latrine equipment, and establishing safe learning spaces for school children until schools can be rebuilt.

IRAUS is initially seeking to raise $100,00 AUD for the immediate response.  Our IRW Emergency Appeal document is currently being finalised and will be available via our website shortly.