Lumajang forms task force

SURABAYA: The regency office of Lumajang has formed a special task force to deal with any emergencies, should the area be flooded by lava from Mt. Semeru which could descend on villages at any time.

Regency spokesman Soedjadi said that the team was establish to provide immediate help if and when the calamity happens, the Antara news agency reported.

Lumajang lies at the foot of the 3,676 meter high Mt. Semeru.

The regency office has sent out alert notices to many villages in the area, warning of the likelihood of a lava flood.

The rainy season has made it even more difficult to predict when such an occurrence could happen, he added. (emb)