Flores residents recall panic after powerful quake

A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores Island in eastern Indonesia early Saturday morning, causing widespread panic among residents. Melania Nius, a 56-year-old woman, was at her husband Basianus Cak's hospital bedside in Ruteng when the quake hit. The powerful tremor sent patients fleeing and caused debris to scatter throughout the hospital.

Melania and her family managed to evacuate with the help of others, praying that God would open a way for their survival. About 2,000 residents evacuated as authorities issued a tsunami warning, which was later lifted. Many stayed outside overnight as aftershocks continued to threaten the safety of compromised buildings. Tonsianus Sambang, a 31-year-old barber, witnessed the quake and helped evacuate patients from the hospital, expressing concern for the well-being of his mother and other patients who had to sleep outside.

The earthquake damaged nearly 160 houses, educational and health facilities, and other public buildings. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the European Union are providing aid to the affected area.