Dozens die in Indonesian flash floods

Heavy rain unleashed flash floods in a remote region of Indonesia's West Papua province, killing 56 people and seriously injuring 81 people.

CIA

Indonesian authorities expect the death toll to rise as difficult terrain has been impeding rescue operations and dozens are still missing.

In the hillside village of Wasior residents were combing the mud with their bare hands in search of survivors.

Hundreds of houses were destroyed, communication lines were down and fallen trees have blocked roads, officials say. Most of the wounded were flown to hospitals in neighbouring districts of Nabire and Manokwari.

Navy ships carrying soldiers were on their way as were several planes loaded down with tents, medical supplies and food.

On Monday, the country’s weather agency said that most parts of the country were experiencing torrential rains, strong winds and flooding, the Jakarta Globe newspaper reported.

The government has respondende to separatist agitation in West Papua by limiting journalists' access to the huge region.