A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale and numerous aftershocks hit eastern Indonesia, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 47 individuals, as reported by the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB). Approximately 2,000 people sought safety as a result of the disaster.
Nagekeo, the area closest to the earthquake’s epicenter, remains inaccessible to rescue teams due to road blockages caused by landslides and communication disruptions. Despite this, a tsunami warning issued after the quake was lifted three hours later.
Describing the intensity of the quake, a resident named Nona from Talibura, a village in East Nusa Tenggara, stated, “The quake was massive; the shock was so strong. There were 13 of us inside the house and we all ran to save ourselves.”
In Maumere, a port town severely impacted by the earthquake, rescue efforts led to the discovery of 20 fatalities, six injuries, and two individuals trapped under debris. Efforts to reach Nagekeo, the epicenter region, have been hampered by landslides, affecting communication signals in the area.
The aftermath of the earthquake saw around 2,000 residents evacuated from Nagekeo, with damages reported to houses, warehouses, and government structures. The governor of East Nusa Tenggara Province confirmed at least five casualties due to collapsing buildings. Significant structural damages were reported, including 157 heavily damaged homes, 41 moderately damaged, and 148 lightly damaged. Additionally, schools, health facilities, places of worship, and office buildings suffered varying degrees of destruction.
Videos shared on social media depicted scenes of chaos and destruction, with buildings crumbling as people fled in panic. The quake’s impact was felt across several provinces, with residents experiencing strong tremors lasting approximately one minute.
Indonesia, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a volatile geological region known for high seismic activity, faces frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
