The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) expresses its condolences for the people affected by the 7.5 magnitude earthquake and tsunami that struck Central Sulawesi in the Republic of Indonesia on September 28. This tragic natural disaster has claimed over 844 lives, and left over 48,000 displaced. The United States stands with the people of Indonesia in their hour of need, and USAID is providing immediate assistance to people displaced by the earthquake and tsunami.

USAID has a team of disaster experts on the ground in Indonesia who are conducting assessments of damage, identifying priority needs, and coordinating closely with local authorities, the Government of Indonesia, humanitarian partners, and faith-based organizations on response efforts. We will continue to monitor the situation closely in order to respond to needs on the ground, save lives, and help the people of Central Sulawesi recover.