This tsunami did not trigger any warnings, meaning that many communities were left unprepared for the damage it caused. At the time of publication, there were 11,687 internally displaced people in the five districts affected by the tsunami. The districts include Pandelang and Serang in Banten Province, South Lampung, Tanggamus and Pesawaran in Laumpung Province, and the number of casualties has reached 281 people.

There are 1,016 injured and 57 missing; these numbers may increase in the coming days as the extent of the disaster is uncovered. Damages include 611 houses, 69 hotels and villas, 60 culinary stalls, 420 boats and 48 vehicles. For those who depend on fishing for their livelihood, the loss of boats may have long-lasting impacts on their economic wellbeing.

This is the third major disaster that has struck the nation of Indonesia in the last four months. World Renew has been working with local partners in Indonesia to respond to earthquakes that struck the islands of Lombok and Sulawesi since August. With an ongoing presence in the country, World Renew staff are already traveling to the affected communities to determine how best to provide assistance. Hundreds of families are in urgent need of food, clean water, and medicine. In the coming days, the extent of needs will become more apparent. World Renew is already mobilizing a response and any donation made to “Indonesia Earthquakes” will go towards this important work.

Please pray for the families in Indonesia who are experiencing crisis during this Christmas season. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, please pray and remember those in Indonesia whose lives have been thrown into uncertainty. Please give generously today.

CREDIT FOR HEADER IMAGE: Associated Press, Fauzy Chaniago

CREDIT FOR IMAGES IN THE BODY: Medair Partner