Heavy floods sweep C. Java

PURWOKERTO, Central Java (JP): Heavy rains have caused severe floods in at least three regencies in Central Java, killing one person and forcing residents to evacuate their homes.

At least 16 houses were destroyed when floods swept through the Banyumas, Cilacap and Kebumen regencies. The body of a Prembun, Banyumas, resident was found yesterday afternoon after being swept under by the current Monday evening.

At least three dams were destroyed by the heavy rains which hit 18 villages in Banyumas alone.

Residents took refuge in makeshift tents at nearby dams as they waited for one of the area's worst floods in five years to subside. As of yesterday afternoon, residents were still waiting for local authorities to set up badly needed communal kitchens. (wah/mds)