Rescue operations are underway on the island of Flores in Indonesia after a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck early Saturday morning. The tremor hit at a depth of 15 kilometers, causing significant destruction to homes and public infrastructure across several provinces. The National Disaster Management Agency reports that at least 47 people died as a result of the collapse of structures while residents slept.
Local authorities state that the provinces of Manggarai and East Manggarai recorded the highest number of casualties. Rescue teams remain on the ground to navigate remote, mountainous terrain and assist those trapped under debris. Initial reports confirm over 150 houses suffered severe damage, alongside schools and healthcare facilities. One secondary earthquake of 6.9 magnitude was also recorded in a different part of the archipelago, highlighting the seismic risk inherent to this region known as the ring of fire.
Emergency supplies including 10,500 aid packages were deployed to assist survivors. While a brief tsunami warning forced approximately 2,000 residents to evacuate coastal areas, officials lifted the alert after observing no significant changes in sea levels. Landslides caused by the quake disrupted access to isolated villages, but recovery efforts continue. Government agencies advise residents to avoid damaged structures and stay away from the coast until the area is deemed secure.