Flash floods kill 70 in Indonesia

Last updated at 14:30 04 November 2003


Flash floods in one of Indonesia's biggest national parks have killed at least 70 people, including foreign tourists.

Floods swept through the Gunung Leuser national park on Sumatra island following torrential rains.

'We are still searching for more bodies and survivors,' said Djonny Sitorus, a search and rescue team official.

The region is popular for wildlife watching as well as rafting, camping and trekking. The floods hit at about 1am local time as most people slept in hotels and homes along the riverbanks.

'Many houses were swept away,' Sitorus said. 'We can't reach some of the areas because the bridges have been swept away.'

Indonesia's rainy season usually starts in November and lasts until April. Much of Sumatra and Java have been hit by heavy rain, however a park official confirmed the floods had not hit the primate conservation centre.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is still advising against all non-essential travel to Indonesia because of 'a high terror threat'. Information has now been upgraded to include advice against all travel to 'Northern Sumatra'.

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