A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Indonesia’s Flores Island early Saturday morning, killing at least 38 people according to initial reports. Search-and-rescue operations are still underway, and local authorities have warned that the death toll could rise. A number of people with varying degrees of injuries have also been taken to medical facilities.
The earthquake struck shortly before 5 a.m. local time. Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency said the epicenter was located at a depth of approximately 15 kilometers underground. Dozens of aftershocks were recorded in the area following the main quake, some of which were significant, including one measuring 6.1 in magnitude.
Reports indicate that buildings in several parts of the island sustained damage. In the remote and mountainous area of Talibura, authorities are still assessing the full extent of the destruction. Preliminary information indicates that 54 homes, five medical facilities, three places of worship, six government buildings, one educational facility, and one warehouse were severely damaged in the area.
Indonesian authorities said Manggarai Regency was also among the areas hardest hit by the earthquake. Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, governor of East Nusa Tenggara Province, said some of those killed were asleep when buildings collapsed and debris fell on them.
Images released from the port of Maumere show sections of concrete from a terminal building collapsing onto people who were present at the site. Other footage shows several people falling into the water after a movable ship bridge collapsed. Rescue operations are continuing in various areas to locate people who may be trapped or injured.
Following the earthquake, a tsunami warning was issued for coastal areas. The warning was lifted approximately three hours after the initial earthquake after no significant rise in sea levels was observed. Following the warning, images showed groups of people riding motorcycles toward inland areas of the island.
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency said approximately 2,000 people had voluntarily evacuated their homes or been moved to safer locations. The agency urged residents to remain calm and stay away from coastal areas as well as buildings showing signs of structural damage.
Given the mountainous and remote nature of some affected areas, local authorities said assessing the full scale of the damage could take time. Rescue teams are surveying affected areas and working to reach locations where people may be trapped.
Indonesia lies in a region where three major tectonic plates converge, making it one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. The country also has extensive volcanic activity and has experienced numerous major earthquakes and tsunamis in recent years.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
