Death toll from floods and landslides on Indonesia's Sumatra island rises to 248, authorities say

Rescue workers in Indonesia struggled on Saturday to reach victims in several devastated areas that were hit by an earthquake and tsunami, and authorities feared the confirmed death toll of 248 would rise further.

The areas were largely cut off by damaged roads and downed communications lines, and relief aircraft were delivering aid and supplies to the hard-hit district of Central Tapanuli in North Sumatra province and others in the region. Rescue efforts were also hampered by damaged bridges and roads and a lack of heavy equipment.

The National Disaster Management Agency said rescuers in West Sumatra’s Agam district recovered more bodies, increasing the death toll to 248 with more than 100 people still missing.

Monsoon rains over the past week caused rivers to burst their banks in North Sumatra province. The deluge tore through mountainside village, swept away people and submerged thousands of houses and buildings, the National Disaster Management Agency said.

Nearly 3,000 displaced families fled to government shelters.

AP