The Way Ela Dam, a natural dam located in the Central Maluku District, failed due to heavy rainfall on Thursday, July 25, 2013. The powerful flood waters crushed the walls built to control the spillway. Within two minutes after the breach, 470 houses were washed away by the water. Flash flooding also destroyed six schools, two mosques and a clinic. Although no loss of life has been reported, 5,233 residents are now displaced. At the present time, the rain has not subsided and is slowing down relief efforts.
HOPE worldwide’s office in nearby Ambon is mobilizing drinking water, which reach the displaced residents’ camp site within 24 hours after disaster. Our local team is mobilizing supplies for the victims as they face an uncertain and difficult future. For the past several years HOPE worldwide has been working in Ambon. HOPE worldwide established a computer skills training program and disaster risk reduction and have provided relief in previous disasters.Maluku lies on the ring of fire where earthquakes, tsunamis, volcano eruptions, storms, landslides are imminent dangers. Reducing the risk to our neighbors due to these disasters as well as collaborating with the local government and civil societies is one of HOPE worldwide Indonesia’s priorities.
HOPE worldwide plans to stay and help meet the needs of our neighbors in Negri Lima for the coming weeks.