Title: Deadly Landslides Leave Dozens Missing in New Zealand and Indonesia

Deadly landslides in New Zealand and Indonesia have left dozens of people missing, with rescue efforts underway in both countries. CONTENT: Two separate landslides in the Pacific region have caused devastation and left dozens of people missing. In New Zealand, six people are unaccounted for after a landslide buried a property in Kaikoura, on the east coast of the South Island. Police have called off rescue efforts, stating that they are not expecting to find any more survivors. Meanwhile, in Indonesia's West Java province, rescue teams are searching for 83 people who went missing following a landslide in the village of Sukajadi. The disaster struck on Sunday, leaving seven people dead and dozens more injured. The victims were reportedly buried beneath mud and debris when heavy rain caused the landslide. The Indonesian National Board for Disaster Management (BNPB) reported that the search and rescue operation was ongoing, with heavy machinery being used to clear the land and locate those still missing. The number of casualties is expected to rise as the full extent of the disaster becomes clear. In New Zealand, the Kaikoura landslide occurred on Friday, with the property owner and five guests reportedly inside at the time. Emergency services, including police, fire and rescue, and the New Zealand Defence Force, were called to the scene, but efforts to locate the missing individuals were unsuccessful. The New Zealand Police stated that the landslide had caused significant damage to the property, making it dangerous to access. A Geological Hazards Notice was issued for the area, warning of the potential for further landslides and rockfalls. Both countries have been experiencing heavy rainfall in recent days, with meteorologists warning of the increased risk of landslides and flooding. In New Zealand, the MetService issued a Severe Weather Warning for heavy rain and strong winds, advising residents to stay informed and take precautions. In Indonesia, the BNPB urged residents in at-risk areas to evacuate and follow the instructions of local authorities. The disaster management agency also advised against non-essential travel in affected areas. Landslides are a common hazard in both New Zealand and Indonesia, particularly during periods of heavy rain. In New Zealand, the country's geology and topography make it particularly prone to landslides, with the majority occurring in the North Island. In Indonesia, landslides are a significant risk in mountainous and hilly areas, particularly during the rainy season. As the search and rescue efforts continue in both countries, the focus is on locating those still missing and providing support to the families of the victims. In the aftermath of these disasters, the importance of disaster preparedness and the need for effective early warning systems have once again been highlighted. Sources: - "New Zealand calls off rescue efforts for six missing after landslide" (Stuff.co.nz, 2023-03-13) - "Indonesia landslide kills 7, dozens more missing" (The Jakarta Post, 2023-03-13)