More than 200 killed, dozens missing from Indonesian tsunami

A tsunami has killed at least 222 people and dozens more are missing in Indonesia over the weekend. More than 800 people were injured too, as the massive waves smashed onto Carita Beach as concert-goers watched a band known as "Seventeen" played.

Carita Beach is on one of the world's most infamous volcanic islands and the tsunami hit at around 9:30 p.m., catching the people off guard.

Scientists said that the tsunami may have been caused by underwater landslides or those on Anak Krakatau’s steep slope following its eruption. The volcano’s name translates to “Child of Krakatoa,” a volcanic island formed over years "after one of the largest, most devastating eruptions in recorded history occurred at the Krakatoa volcano more than a century ago," the AP said. "The scientists also cited tidal waves caused by the full moon."

The Anak Krakatau volcano lies in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra islands, linking the Indian Ocean and Java Sea. It erupted about 24 minutes before the tsunami, the geophysics agency said.

The tidal wave destroyed homes and hotels, ripping them from their foundations and swept concertgoers into the sea. the Associated Press reported.

Horrifying video was later posted on social media of the tragedy. It showed the Indonesian pop band performing under a tent on a popular beach at a concert for employees of a state-owned electric company. People sat at tables covered in white cloths while others bobbed to the music near the stage as bright strobe lights flashed and theatrical smoke was released.

"Seventeen" released a statement saying their bass player, guitarist and road manager were found dead, while two other band members and the wife of one of the performers are still missing.

“The tide rose to the surface and dragged all the people on site,” the statement said. “Unfortunately, when the current receded our members were unable to save themselves while some did not find a place to hold on.”

At this time, 222 people are confirmed dead, 843 were injured, and dozens more are missing.

Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo expressed his sympathy and ordered government agencies to respond quickly to the disaster.

“My deep condolences to the victims in Banten and Lumpung provinces,” he said. “Hopefully, those who are left have patience.”






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