At least 38 individuals lost their lives following a powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale and numerous aftershocks that hit eastern Indonesia over the weekend. The quake triggered a tsunami warning that was later lifted after about three hours.
According to Suharyanto, the head of Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), there have been 38 confirmed fatalities, with two individuals in critical condition and 11 sustaining minor injuries. Approximately 2,000 people have evacuated to safer locations.
Rescue efforts in the town of Maumere have resulted in the discovery of 20 deceased individuals, six injured persons, and two individuals trapped beneath debris. Reports indicate that numerous residents are still trapped in buildings in the affected areas, with landslides obstructing several roads.
Rescue teams have not yet reached Nagekeo, the area closest to the earthquake’s epicenter, due to communication signal disruptions and blocked roads caused by landslides. Around 2,000 residents in Nagekeo have been evacuated, with damage reported to various structures. The region has experienced traffic congestion and power outages.
Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena confirmed at least five deaths due to collapsing buildings. Witness accounts describe scenes of panic as buildings crumbled, with individuals running for safety during the tremors.
The earthquake was felt strongly in East Nusa Tenggara, West Nusa Tenggara, and parts of South Sulawesi, with residents reporting approximately one minute of shaking. Indonesia, situated on the seismically active “Pacific Ring of Fire,” frequently experiences earthquakes and volcanic activity.