5 Dead as 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off Indonesia's Flores Island
Xinhua · 3 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago1 MIN
Summary
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake and several strong aftershocks struck off the coast of Flores Island in eastern Indonesia early Saturday, killing at least five people as buildings collapsed and tsunami warnings were issued across the region. The death toll has since risen to 20, according to the latest reports from rescue officials. Governor Melki Laka Lena of East Nusa Tenggara confirmed the casualties and outlined the destruction during a press conference in Kupang.
Key Points
- The earthquake was centered near Mbay town in Nagekeo Regency at a depth of 15 km, striking at 4:58 a.m. local time
- Five people died from collapsing rubble as they slept, with two victims in Sikka Regency and three in Manggarai Regency
- Tsunami waves of less than 1 metre were recorded in several areas before the warning was lifted about three hours later
- Approximately 2,000 residents in Nagekeo evacuated, with damage reported to houses, warehouses and government buildings
- The Chinese Consulate General in Denpasar issued an alert for Chinese citizens and tourists in Labuan Bajo to stay on high alert
Why It Matters
The disaster highlights Indonesia's vulnerability to seismic activity as part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, where thousands of aftershocks continue to pose risks to rescue operations and remaining residents in affected areas .
The disaster highlights Indonesia's vulnerability to seismic activity as part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, where thousands of aftershocks continue to pose risks to rescue operations and remaining residents in affected areas .