Indonesia's Flores Island Hit by 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake; At Least 14 Dead

A powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Indonesia's Flores Island early Saturday, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and numerous injuries. The Indonesian National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) stated that casualty figures are still being finalized as search and rescue operations continue for those trapped in damaged buildings.

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At least 14 people lost their lives, and many were injured, according to initial assessments.

The quake occurred shortly before 5 a.m. local time at a depth of 15 kilometers, according to Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency. Multiple aftershocks followed, including one measuring 6.1 magnitude. A tsunami warning was issued shortly after the main tremor but was withdrawn approximately three hours later. Around 2,000 residents evacuated to higher ground or safer areas, with many hesitant to return home due to ongoing aftershocks.

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Some of the deceased were sleeping during the earthquake and were trapped under the rubble of collapsed structures.

Damage assessments are underway, but initial reports highlight significant destruction. At Maumere Port, large concrete pieces detached from the terminal building, falling onto an area where passengers were waiting to board a ferry. Some individuals reportedly fell into the sea when a bridge providing access to a ship collapsed. The governor of East Nusa Tenggara, Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, confirmed that some victims were asleep and were crushed by collapsing structures. Authorities are urging citizens to stay away from coastal areas and avoid entering buildings with visible cracks or structural damage.

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Around 2,000 people were evacuated or moved to safe areas on their own initiative.