BMKG Predicts Aftershocks in NTT Will Continue for 3-4 More Weeks

Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) in Indonesia can expect aftershocks to persist for another three to four weeks, according to the Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).

The agency has recorded a total of 2,119 aftershocks since a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, NTT, on Saturday, August 15. Of these, 24 were above magnitude 5, and 70 were felt by residents.

The powerful earthquake, which occurred on Saturday morning, also triggered a tsunami in the surrounding regions. BMKG reported that the tsunami warning was issued within two minutes of the main quake. The highest wave was recorded at 1.605 meters in Pota, Manggarai Timur, NTT, at 5:03 AM local time.

Wijayanto, Director of Earthquakes and Tsunamis at BMKG, explained that the shallow earthquake was triggered by tectonic activity in the Flores Back-Arc, with an upward thrust fault mechanism. The tsunami affected 16 locations across four provinces: NTT, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), South Sulawesi, and Southeast Sulawesi.

As of Monday, August 17, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported 68 fatalities and 213 injuries resulting from the earthquake. Significant damage has also been reported in areas including West Manggarai, Manggarai, East Manggarai, and Sikka, with damage levels ranging from minor to severe.

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Based on preliminary data, these aftershocks will end in the next 3-4 weeks.