NTT Earthquake Update: 14 Dead, 111 Aftershocks Recorded
The death toll in the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) surged to 14 people, with over a dozen injuries.
Jakarta - The National Disaster Management Agency reported 14 deaths following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on Saturday morning, with the death toll rising as emergency responders continue to verify and validate information. Berton SP Panjaitan, acting head of BNPB's Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Center, confirmed two individuals suffered serious injuries, while 11 others sustained minor injuries. The majority of victims were reported in Sikka, Manggarai, and East Manggarai Regencies.
In total, 111 aftershocks were recorded by the BMKG Geophysics Station following the initial quake. The strongest aftershock measured 3.8 on the Richter scale. Despite the aftershocks, seismic activity persisted, according to Arief Tystama, Head of the BMKG Kupang Geophysics Station, urging residents to remain vigilant.
Approximately 2,000 residents self-evacuated due to the tremor and a subsequent tsunami warning, though the alert has since been lifted. Around 54 houses were severely damaged, nine moderately damaged, and 11 lightly damaged. In Manggarai Regency, 29 houses were severely damaged, while five health facilities, one educational facility, and three places of worship were also affected.
East Manggarai Regency saw 23 severely damaged homes, and Nagekeo Regency reported damage to two houses, one moderately and two lightly damaged. Five government offices were impacted in the region. Traffic congestion and power outages were reported in the affected areas.
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