Death Toll Rises to 47 After Earthquake on Indonesia's Flores Island

Rescuers are searching for survivors on Indonesia's Flores Island following a powerful earthquake that struck off its coast, as the death toll climbed to at least 47. The Indonesian National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) confirmed the rising fatalities, initially reporting 37 deaths after the quake on Saturday.

The seismic event caused widespread destruction, with more than 150 houses severely damaged. Critical infrastructure also suffered significant impacts, including 97 schools and 18 health facilities. In response, the air force is dispatching 275 tons of initial relief supplies to the affected region.

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The number of dead has risen to at least 47 after the severe earthquake off the coast of the Indonesian island of Flores.

The magnitude 7.7 earthquake occurred at a relatively shallow depth of approximately 10 kilometers. Its epicenter was located about 70 kilometers northwest of Ende, a town on Flores Island in the East Nusa Tenggara province. This region is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a geologically active zone known for its frequent seismic and volcanic activity, making Indonesia particularly vulnerable to such disasters.

The Indonesian government is coordinating relief efforts, including the deployment of aid via the air force, to support the affected communities. The full extent of the damage and the number of casualties are still being assessed as rescue operations continue.

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More than 150 houses were severely damaged, and 97 schools and 18 health facilities were also damaged.