Oxfam’s local partners are assessing the situation after a massive earthquake and tsunami hit towns on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi on Friday. Oxfam stands ready to deploy additional staff and resources to the area to support the Indonesian Government-led response.

An estimated 1.5 million people could be affected by the earthquake and tsunami, in addition to the 830 confirmed fatalities. Initial reports suggest that at least 16,732 people were forced from their homes and are scattered across 23 sites, although this number is likely to rise. The main road linking the city of Palu to the rest of Central Sulawesi has been blocked by a landslide and the airport in Palu is operating at half capacity making access difficult.

Ancilla Bere, Oxfam’s Humanitarian Manager in Indonesia, said: “It is likely that thousands of people across a large area will need urgent help after this powerful earthquake and tsunami.

“Oxfam is provisionally planning a response to reach 100,000 people in Palu city and Donggala district. This is likely to focus on the immediate needs such as ready-to-eat meals, water purification kits and emergency shelters.”

“Access and communication remains a big concern with a key road cut off by a landslide and other infrastructure badly damaged. It is encouraging to hear that the Indonesian Armed Forces has mobilized military aircraft and helicopters to reach people in affected areas.”

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Spokespeople available for interview:

· Maria Lauranti, Oxfam Indonesia Country Director (Jakarta)

· Ancilla Bere, Oxfam Indonesia Humanitarian Manager (Surabaya)

· Nigel Timmins, Humanitarian Director (London)