Indonesia earthquake death toll reaches 53, thousands evacuated

A magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck Indonesia's Flores island on Saturday, killing at least 53 people and leaving thousands homeless. The quake, which had its epicentre off the north coast of the island, also injured dozens and caused significant damage to homes and public facilities. About 5,000 people fled their homes after the earthquake, many taking shelter on hillsides to avoid possible landslides.

While the initial death toll stood at 53, authorities have recorded 995 aftershocks, though only 46 were felt by residents. The quake damaged over 900 homes and damaged nearly 450 more, as well as at least 167 public facilities, including schools and health centres. About 24 people died in Manggarai regency and 17 in East Manggarai, with additional fatalities reported in other nearby regencies.

The Indonesian government has dispatched aid, including food, water, medicine, and blankets, to affected areas, but challenges remain in delivering relief to isolated villages cut off by landslides. Indonesian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese offered his condolences to the families of the victims, and the international community, including the European Union, has offered assistance.