Thousands evacuate after Indonesia quake kills 51, cuts roads

A magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck eastern Indonesia, killing at least 51 people and causing widespread destruction, according to authorities. The quake, which occurred on Saturday morning, also blocked roads and triggered numerous landslides. Around 5,000 people have been evacuated from the affected region of East Nusa Tenggara province, with over 3,300 self-evacuating or seeking refuge in a sports arena.

The disaster mitigation agency reported that approximately 341 aftershocks followed the initial quake. Thirty-six individuals suffered serious injuries, and 77 had minor injuries. Over 1,300 homes were damaged, and more than 3,500 military and police officers have been deployed to the region to provide assistance. The East Nusa Tenggara government is considering declaring an emergency to mobilize resources and funding.

Indonesia, situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire, is prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its location on the boundary of tectonic plates.