Earthquake - Indonesia

A 6.3 level earthquake has occurred in Indonesia (Central Java) in the early morning hours Saturday causing structures and buildings to topple and collapse crushing and injuring the sleeping residents. The quake struck near the erupting volcano of Mount Merapi, abut 24 kilometers southwest of the city of Yogyakarta. The loss of lives is estimated at 4400 and the total is still climbing.

Indonesia is still struggling to recover from the devastating effects of the massive tsunami that wiped out coastal communities in 2004. This area is in the “Pacific Ring of Fire” – a zone of frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions that encircle the Pacific Basin.

Canada has immediately pledged $2 million in aid money. No doubt the teams of rescue, medical, and other workers will be flown in as soon as possible.