Typhoon devastates five villages in Jambi

Typhoon devastates five villages in Jambi

SAROLANGUN, Jambi: Dozens of houses were torn down by a typhoon which swept through five villages in Sarolangun regency of Jambi province on Friday, leaving hundreds of residents homeless in the torrential rains.

Sarolangun Regent Madel confirmed that the natural disaster destroyed the roofs and walls of some 60 houses, mostly made from wood, in the five villages.

Authorities have yet to calculate the losses incurred by the disaster, as they were still inspecting the scene.

"I've lived here for 60 years but I've never seen a strong wind like that," said Sulaiman, whose house was destroyed by the typhoon.

Some parts of Sumatra Island have also experienced floods during the recent rainy season, which have been blamed by environmentalists on the widespread deforestation. --Antara