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Jed Boal ReportingAn earthquake 11 days ago killed thousands in Indonesia and left many more struggling to survive. Many countries responded with aid. A Salt Lake native working in the quake zone says the victims face extraordinary challenges.
That May 27th quake turned ramshackle homes into piles of bricks and rubble in less than a minute. A Red Cross team leader raised in Salt Lake told us over the phone the devastation is widespread and a volcano looms as another threat.
The 6.3-magnitude earthquake in central Java Island killed nearly 6,000 people, injured 40,000 and destroyed more than 100,000 homes. So many people now live in shelters with no toilets or running water, that health experts fear disease.
Nate Cooper, Red Cross: "You'll come across a village that's fine. Then you come across a village that's completely devastated with 90 percent of the homes on the ground."
Salt Lake City native Nate Cooper works in the International Disaster Response Unit at Red Cross National Headquarters. He arrived in Jojakarta, the quake zone, six days ago. Many roads are blocked, making aid distribution a challenge.
Nate Cooper: "But we are getting the supplies in, we are moving them out to the field, and we are getting them to the people who need the assistance."
Cooper grew up on Capitol Hill and graduated from West High. He says the diversity in his neighborhood inspired him to explore other cultures.
To make the situation worse, hot gas and molten lava from Mount Merapi, 25 miles away, forced thousands from their homes. An eruption is probable.
Nate Cooper: "It's being described as the eventual eruption of the Merapi volcano, so it's not about a potential eruption any more, it is going to erupt."
Some scientists think the quake increased activity at the volcano. The Red Cross has short and long-term goals.
Nate Cooper: "It's going to be quite a while before they're 100-percent. Many have lost family members, so obviously it will never be the same for them."
Cooper says the community spirit to rebuild is impressive. If you want to help with a cash contribution, call 1-800-Red Cross or look for the link at the top right of this story. You can also sign up locally to train as a Red Cross Volunteer.
