S. Nias announces emergency status after landslide

South Nias administration has announced a state of emergency in the area until to Dec. 13, following a landslide in Baruze village, Mazo district, on Wednesday, that led to the death of five residents.

The administration warned residents to be careful when travelling to the area because a bridge in the village had also broken during the disaster.

It also warned residents about the possible further floods and landslides during the rainy season.

“We will announce the emergency status through mosques, churches and other public spaces,” South Nias disaster management unit chief J. Tambunan said Thursday.

The administration has built emergency posts and shelters for evacuees, and many Baruze residents have moved to relatives’ or neighbors’ houses.

“We will channel logistics to evacuees so they will not burden other residents,” South Nias regent Idealisman Dachi said as quoted by kompas.com.