A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck the island of Flores in Indonesia during the early hours of Saturday, August 15. Occurring at approximately 4:58 a.m. local time, the tremor prompted immediate tsunami warnings and has tragically resulted in at least 38 fatalities, as reported by Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).
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The earthquake’s impact was widespread, affecting several regions, including Nagekeo Regency, Sikka Regency, West Manggarai Regency, Bima City, as well as the Selayar Islands and Maros Regency. Following the initial quake, a series of aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 5.5 to 6.2 were recorded, heightening fears among residents.
Rescue operations are currently prioritising the recovery of trapped individuals and damage assessment. Official sources indicate that alongside the fatalities, two people sustained serious injuries and a further 11 suffered minor injuries. Local rescue teams are working diligently to locate and assist those still trapped amid the debris.
Approximately 2,000 residents evacuated their homes in response to the quake, heeding the warnings issued by the government. The BNPB has mobilised an emergency response team to assist local authorities with rapid assessments, medical treatment for victims, and the provision of essential resources to those affected. They have also arranged logistical support to bolster ongoing efforts on the ground.
Initially, Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) raised tsunami warnings across the region, predicting dangerous sea level rises. However, subsequent observations confirmed that any tsunami waves that materialised were less than 1 metre (3 feet), leading to the warnings being lifted approximately three hours after the earthquake struck. Officials continue to urge residents to remain cautious due to the potential for aftershocks.
Buildings across the affected regions experienced significant damage, leading to power outages and leaving many trapped under collapsed structures. Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, the governor of East Nusa Tenggara, emphasised in a press conference that the primary objective is to rescue victims and conduct evacuations. He has also outlined the cooperative efforts of various agencies involved in the disaster response.
In a further statement, Governor Lena highlighted the ongoing tasks undertaken by the BPBD and the NTT Provincial Disaster Management Office, which include gathering data, monitoring the extent of the damage, and coordinating response strategies across the affected areas.
As rescue operations continue, authorities are working tirelessly to assess the full scale of the disaster and ensure that those impacted receive the necessary support and assistance in the days to come.