At least 38 dead in eastern Indonesia earthquake of magnitude 7.7

A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Flores Island in eastern Indonesia on Saturday morning, resulting in at least 47 deaths and prompting widespread evacuations. Over 2,000 people were displaced, and landslides hampered rescue efforts in the region, severely damaging roads, public infrastructure, and five airports.

Tsunami waves of less than a meter were reported in some areas before the warning was lifted. Aftershocks, including four magnitude-5.0 or greater quakes, were recorded, with more expected over the next two weeks. The earthquake was caused by back-arc thrust activity in the Flores Sea, and while there are reports of water rising from the ground, liquefaction has not been confirmed.

Flores Island, known for its 15 volcanoes, was not directly affected by the earthquake, although Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located in East Flores Regency, remains active. Indonesia, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, having experienced a devastating 7.8-magnitude quake in 1992 that claimed around 2,000 lives.