Devastating Earthquake Strikes Indonesia

15,000 people have been displaced due to mass destruction caused by an earthquake in Indonesia. The country is in a state of emergency (photo courtesy AP News).

In Indonesia’s Sulawesi Island, a strong earthquake caused much destruction in homes and buildings, as well as triggering landslides. More than 600 people are injured and 42 have been found dead due to the 6.2 magnitude quake, although authorities are still collecting information about the full scale of casualties and damage.

At least 300 houses and a health clinic were damaged and about 15,000 people are being housed in temporary shelters in the district. Power and phone lines are down in many areas. Rescuers claim that with the lack of heavy equipment, it is difficult to clear the rubble from the collapsed houses and buildings. Indonesia is still in a state of emergency response.