At least 47 killed as powerful earthquake strikes Indonesia

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Indonesia on Saturday, resulting in at least 47 deaths, according to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB). The initial death toll was reported at 45, with 20 fatalities, six injuries, and two people trapped under debris found by rescue workers near Maumere, a port town on Flores Island.

Efforts to reach Nagekeo, the region closest to the earthquake's epicenter, have been hampered by blocked roads due to landslides and communication issues. Approximately 2,000 residents were evacuated to safety. The quake caused damage to homes, warehouses, and government buildings, with 157 homes heavily damaged and 87 schools affected.

Some schools, health facilities, places of worship, and office buildings also sustained damage. Residents in various areas reported shaking that lasted around one minute. Tsunami waves below one meter were recorded, but the warning was lifted after three hours. The Indonesian geophysics agency BMKG recorded the initial quake at a depth of 15km, followed by several aftershocks.

In 1992, a magnitude-7.5 earthquake hit the same region, causing extensive destruction. Indonesia, located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is a seismically active area prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The United Arab Emirates extended its condolences to Indonesia and its people, wishing for a swift recovery for the injured.