At least 26 killed, 7 missing in flash flood in Papua, Indonesia

Flash floods in West Papua province in easternmost of Indonesia has killed at least 26 people and left seven others missing, an official said Monday.

Spokesman of Disaster Management Agency Priyadi Kardono said earlier that the floods occurred on Sunday, but then he revised it to before down Monday.

Heavy rains were blamed for the disaster at Teluk Wondama district of the province, the spokesman said.

The floods also injured 61 people and destroyed 31 houses, he said.

"The death toll recorded has increased to 26 now with 61 persons wounded. Seven others still go missing," Kardono told Xinhua by phone.

Earlier Kardono said the rescue for the missing people by local communities was hampered by fallen trees.

Head of operation of the Search and Rescue Office for West Papua Muhammad Arifin said dozens of rescuers from Manokwari, the capital of West Papua province, and other cities may arrive to the scene after midnight.

"The team of rescuers departed this afternoon. The journey to the scene will take several hours and they may arrive there after midnight," he told Xinhua by phone from the province.

Floods and landslides frequently happen in Indonesia particularly during the wet season, which annually and regularly take place from December to April, but it lasts longer this year.

Source: Xinhua