Strong winds, torrential rains hit Bali

The Jakarta Post | Wed, 01/12/2011 10:37 AM | National

GIANYAR: Thirty-seven houses in Gianyar regency were destroyed after torrential rains and strong winds hit several areas of Bali on Monday night.

Disaster and Relief Control Center chief Putu Anom Agustina said that the homeowners needed assistance from the local and provincial governments. “We are lucky that there were no casualties during Monday’s incident,” Agustina said.

Strong winds also hit Denpasar, Jimbaran and Kuta, forcing several airlines to delay flight departures.

“We had to wait for two hours before leaving,” said Harikhesa, a passenger on Lion Air’s 10:10 p.m. flight from Denpasar to Jakarta.

Bali Social Affairs office head Ketit Susrama said that the provincial administration was currently coordinating with regional governments to assist victims of the severe weather.