At least 68 dead after Indonesia earthquake as survivors experience aftershocks, await aid

Rescuers are combing through collapsed buildings in eastern Indonesia for survivors after a deadly earthquake killed at least 68 people and injured over 200. Thousands have been evacuated from their homes in East Nusa Tenggara province, seeking shelter in tents and fearing further aftershocks. The disaster has cast a shadow over Indonesia's Independence Day celebrations.

The country's geophysics agency reported a 5.6 magnitude quake on Monday morning, which has since been followed by nearly 1,600 aftershocks. The tremor caused landslides and blocked roads, disrupting access in several regions. Damaged health centers are being used to accommodate villagers, with makeshift tents and hospital beds set up in parking lots.

Survivors describe dire conditions. Firmus Woge, a 64-year-old farmer, is being treated for asthma aggravated by panic, noting breathing difficulties worsened by morning aftershocks. In Ranukolo village, about 70 residents, mostly women and children, lack clean water, leading to cases of diarrhea. Emilianus Oro, a 56-year-old farmer, reported an elderly person suffered a stroke and that aid had not yet arrived.

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but it's getting worse again after this morning's quake

Veronika Nggambi, 22, is sheltering with her baby and mother in a pickup truck as her house is uninhabitable. "I can only eat rice with nothing else," she said. "We need aid as soon as possible. We are just salt farmers."

The search for missing persons continues, with rescue teams planning aerial monitoring. Authorities are preparing to deliver aid, including food and tents, to the affected areas. The earthquake damaged approximately 500 homes, and the country's deputy health minister announced plans to build emergency field hospitals.

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I can only eat rice with nothing else. We need aid as soon as possible. We are just salt farmers.