- Magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia early on Saturday, followed by several aftershocks, according to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre.
- Indonesia's geophysics agency BMKG issued an early tsunami warning for some regions in the country.
- At least two people have died following the earthquake in Maumere, Flores, as buildings collapsed and people fled into the streets.
- The tsunami warning was later lifted, and search and rescue teams are working to free anyone trapped in damaged buildings.
- BNPB advised residents to stay away from coastal areas and avoid entering damaged buildings.
- The earthquake struck the Flores region in East Nusa Tenggara shortly before 05:00 local time, at a depth of 15 km.
- Strong aftershocks were felt in the same area, including one with a magnitude of 6.1.
- The two victims were identified as a man and a woman, according to the National Disaster Management Agency.
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia's Flores region early Saturday, around 4:58 a.m. local time, at a depth of 15 km. The quake resulted in at least two fatalities, identified as a man and a woman, according to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).18911
The earthquake triggered an early tsunami warning from Indonesia's geophysics agency, although it was later lifted. Video footage from the port showed significant damage, with large chunks of concrete falling onto passengers waiting to board ferries. Some individuals were reportedly thrown into the sea when the gangway collapsed.
Search and rescue teams are currently operating in Maumere, working to free anyone trapped in damaged buildings. Residents experienced panic, with many fleeing to higher ground. Arnold Welianto, a local resident, described the scene: “Once we were outside, residents in our neighbourhood, which is located close to the shoreline, had already fled their homes and were heading toward the hills.”
The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre reported that the quake was followed by at least three aftershocks, including a significant one measuring 6.1. Authorities have advised the public to remain calm and avoid coastal areas due to the potential for further seismic activity.
“The quake struck the Flores region at a depth of 15km, with a 6.1 magnitude aftershock felt. BNPB is prioritizing public safety, advising residents to avoid damaged buildings and stay away from coastal areas as search and rescue teams work in Maumere.”
BBC
