Key facts
- A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, Indonesia, killing at least 47 people.
- Hundreds of buildings were severely damaged.
- A tsunami warning was issued and later lifted.
- Rescue efforts are ongoing to find survivors trapped under rubble.
Rescuers are actively searching for survivors in Indonesia following a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck the island of Flores. The quake, which occurred shortly before 05:00 local time on Saturday, has resulted in at least 47 confirmed deaths, with hundreds of buildings reported to be severely damaged. Dozens of aftershocks have continued to rattle the region.
Preliminary reports indicate significant destruction, with over 150 houses severely damaged, alongside numerous educational institutions, healthcare facilities, places of worship, and other public structures. Fatalities were concentrated in provinces such as Manggarai and East Manggarai. Aid is being sent to the affected areas, with 10,500 packages already arriving at base operations.
The earthquake's tremors were felt across a wide area, extending to Bima Regency and City. While a tsunami warning was issued, prompting some 2,000 people to evacuate coastal areas, it was lifted approximately three hours later after no significant sea level rise was detected. However, landslides have obstructed access to some villages, complicating rescue efforts. Experienced rescue teams are working to free individuals trapped under debris, and temporary medical facilities have been established.
Indonesia is situated in a seismically active region known as the 'ring of fire,' making it prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity due to its location at the convergence of major tectonic plates. Officials have advised residents to remain calm and stay away from damaged structures and coastal areas.