Rescuers search for survivors of powerful Indonesia earthquake

Rescue efforts in Indonesia are ongoing following a major earthquake that struck the island of Flores on Saturday, claiming at least 47 lives. The magnitude 7.7 quake occurred shortly before 05:00 local time, with a depth of 15km. Preliminary reports indicate widespread damage to hundreds of buildings and numerous aftershocks. While the full impact of the disaster remains unclear, news of a magnitude 6.9 earthquake at the opposite end of Indonesia serves as a reminder of the region's vulnerability along the "Ring of Fire."

Seismic tremors from the initial quake were felt as far west as Bima Regency and City, though Manggarai province bore the brunt of the impact. Preliminary data shows 24 fatalities there, with 17 in East Manggarai province, three in Sikka province, and at least one each in Ngada, Ende, and West Manggarai provinces. At least two more individuals suffered serious injuries, and 11 others sustained minor injuries.

Aid is being dispatched to the affected areas, with 10,500 packages delivered so far. It may take time to fully assess the scale of destruction in the remote, mountainous region. Early reports indicate over 150 houses severely damaged, along with dozens of schools, healthcare facilities, places of worship, offices, and public buildings.

Video footage from Maumere, Flores' largest town, shows significant structural damage, including large chunks of concrete falling onto passengers at the port. Some were thrown into the sea when a gangway collapsed. Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena reported that many victims were killed while asleep by collapsing rubble. Arnold Welianto, who lives near Sikka's coastline, recounted being jolted awake and rushing to his child's room.

He also noted that residents had begun fleeing to the hills as the sea receded. Initially, a tsunami warning was issued, prompting approximately 2,000 people to evacuate, but it was later lifted when no significant sea level rise was detected. Landslides, however, have blocked access to some villages. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to free those trapped under debris.

A temporary medical tent was set up in Ruteng to treat earthquake victims. The BNPB advises residents to remain calm and avoid coastal areas and damaged structures. Indonesia's location along the meeting point of three major tectonic plates makes it prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity.