Wonosobo fire guts 38 homes

WONOSOBO, Central Java: Fire gutted 38 homes yesterday morning forcing 33 families to seek temporary shelter at a nearby high school.

No casualties were reported in the fire but material losses are expected to exceed Rp 560 million (US$189,000).

The fire was believed to have started in an empty house used to store dry wood and tobacco leafs, Antara reported.

According to witnesses, the fire was difficult to put out because of the scarcity of water and the difficulty fire engines to reach the location.

Wonosobo regent Margono has promised to give Rp 100,000 to each family whose house was destroyed. (mds)