DEATH TOLL FROM THE TSUNAMI IN INDONESIA HAS RISEN

Rescue workers are stepping up efforts to reach the many areas devastated by a deadly tsunami;that hit Indonesian almost without warning in the darkness, smashing into houses, hotels and other buildings. Officials said the toll had risen to 281 with over 1000 people injured and others still missing.

Dozens are missing from the disaster areas along the coastlines of western Java and southern Sumatra islands. The numbers could increase once authorities hear from all stricken areas.The waves that swept terrified people into the sea on Saturday night followed an eruption and possible landslide on Anak Krakatoa, a volcanic island that emerged from the sea in the 1920s.

Many coastal residents reported not seeing or feeling any warning signs,such as an earthquake, on Saturday night before a first, small wavewashed ashore.