Key facts
- A magnitude-7.7 earthquake hit eastern Indonesia, killing at least 51 people.
- The quake caused landslides and blocked roads, hindering rescue efforts.
- Approximately 5,000 people have evacuated their homes.
- Over 1,300 homes were damaged, and 36 people suffered serious injuries.
- Twenty petrol stations are non-operational due to power outages.
A powerful magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck eastern Indonesia, resulting in at least 51 fatalities and displacing approximately 5,000 people. The quake, which occurred in East Nusa Tenggara province, also caused significant damage, including landslides and blocked roads, complicating rescue efforts. Authorities reported 36 serious injuries and 77 minor injuries, with over 1,300 homes damaged. Many residents have sought shelter in makeshift tents and sports arenas due to fear of aftershocks, which numbered over 341. Power outages have rendered 20 petrol stations inoperable. The provincial government is considering declaring a state of emergency to mobilize resources. Indonesia, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently experiences seismic activity.