(13 September 07) Within the last 24 hours two strong earthquakes (7.7 and 8.4 on the Richter scale) hit Western Sumatra. Many buildings in the capital city of Padang have been destroyed. There the GKPM office, parsonage and students' dorm has been evacuated as it is close to the sea. Rev. Rugun Pakpahan, the GKPM pastor on Padang has appealed for prayers. "We are very afraid," she adds.

Unreported in the mass media is the damage on the islands of Mentawai. Initial information from Ephorus Simanjuntak indicate widespread destruction on  Sikakap which is on the southernmost island and closest to the epicentre. He says in an SMS today: "Menatawai sudah rusak. Semua masyarakat mengungsi ke gunung. (Mentawai is destroyed. All the people have fled to the hills.)" Many houses, stores, roads have reportedly been destroyed. Among the houses destroyed are those of the church leaders as these are close to the shore. At least 200 persons are living in tents in Nemnemleleu, the small village where the GKPM HQ is based.

In the central island of Sipora, at least 500 persons are reported to be living in tents. Fear is also rife. Heike Saguntung, a German and UEM former co-worker, says that the quake today was the worst since she started living on the islands 20 years ago.

Communication and transport of emergency supplies to the islands is difficult. No boats are sailing. Mentawai has an airport in the central island of Siporo but planes are not flying either. The UEM has earlier supported the GKPM and the PGI-W West Sumatra in efforts for disaster preparedness and response. With this training and the GKPM's good relationship with the bupati, the head of the regency, we have expect aid to reach Mentawai soon. YTBI has already sent an initial IDR 10.000.000 which has been used to purchase tents and food.

The GKPM is organizing the purchase of more tents and emergency supplies. A meeting with the bupati is set for tomorrow.