14-3-2024 (JAKARTA) Tragedy struck the idyllic shores of the Indonesian paradise island of Bali as two foreign tourists, including an Australian woman, lost their lives in a devastating landslide triggered by heavy rainfall, officials reported on Thursday (Mar 14).
The incident occurred in Jatiluwih village, a picturesque spot frequented by tourists, following a night of relentless rain in the region. The wooden villa where the tourists were staying succumbed to the force of the landslide, sweeping away everything in its path, according to I Nyoman Srinadha Giri, an official from the local disaster mitigation agency.
The deluge caused significant erosion to the water canals used for irrigation situated above the villa, ultimately leading to the fatal landslide. Both victims, tragically, were found in their beds amidst the debris.
“The victims were evacuated from the debris while in sleeping positions. There were two victims, a man and a woman in one bed,” said Giri.
The female victim, aged 47 and hailing from Australia, possessed a permanent residence permit for the United States. However, the nationality and identity of the male victim remain undisclosed.
Following the recovery efforts, the bodies of the victims were transported to a hospital in Denpasar, the provincial capital.
Landslides and flooding are common occurrences in Indonesia, particularly during the wet season, which typically commences around November. Deforestation exacerbates the situation in certain areas, leaving them vulnerable to the destructive effects of prolonged heavy rainfall.
Just last week, Sumatra Island witnessed devastating landslides and floods, claiming the lives of at least 27 individuals. As authorities grapple with the aftermath of such natural disasters, attention is increasingly focused on mitigating the impact of these incidents and enhancing preparedness measures to safeguard lives and property.
