Key facts
- A magnitude earthquake struck off Flores, Indonesia, on Saturday.
- At least 68 people were killed and 213 injured.
- Over 19,000 people are displaced, with thousands of homes damaged.
- Schools, health facilities, and places of worship sustained damage.
- Authorities are providing psychosocial support to children and survivors.
Thousands of people remain displaced on the Indonesian island of Flores following a powerful earthquake that killed at least 68 people, injured over 200, and damaged thousands of homes. The disaster, which struck early Saturday, has left many children struggling with fear and trauma.
More than 19,000 people are sheltering in tents and makeshift camps after the earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles). The National Disaster Management Agency reported that at least 4,500 homes were damaged, along with 122 health facilities, 252 schools, and 84 places of worship. Tsunami warnings were issued shortly after the quake but were later lifted.
Authorities have recorded over 2,100 aftershocks, with residents experiencing ongoing fear. Vincentius Rano, a resident of Lamba Leda, described the terrifying moment the earthquake struck, causing his home to collapse and injuring him. Aid workers and volunteers are providing psychosocial support, food, and medical assistance in evacuation camps.
Local police chief Yudhi Franata is organizing trauma-healing sessions for displaced children, noting their particular vulnerability after experiencing such a disaster. In Ende's village of Lokoboko, children are participating in games and educational activities designed to help them cope with anxiety. Parents report that many children are afraid to return indoors and are easily startled by aftershocks.
Indonesia, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is highly susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Flores itself experienced a devastating earthquake and tsunami in 1992 that killed approximately 2,500 people.