At least 47 dead in eastern Indonesia after magnitude 7.7 quake

At least 47 people were killed in eastern Indonesia after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast on Saturday, according to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency. Rescue efforts have yet to reach the region closest to the epicenter, Nagekeo, due to landslides blocking roads and disrupting communications. Villagers reported feeling the strong shock and fleeing to higher ground.

Tsunami waves of less than 1 meter were recorded in several areas following the early-morning quake, though the warning was lifted three hours later. In Maumere, the main town in Sikka Regency on Flores Island, 20 people were reported dead, six injured, and two trapped under rubble. About 2,000 residents evacuated the area, with damage to homes, warehouses, and government buildings.

The earthquake caused power outages and traffic congestion in some parts of the region. At least five people were killed when buildings collapsed while people were sleeping. Preliminary data showed significant damage to 157 homes, 41 schools, 18 health facilities, five places of worship, and six office buildings. Residents remain concerned about potential aftershocks, with several areas reporting tremors lasting about a minute.