Indonesia's NTT Region Urged to Stay Alert After Earthquake and Tsunami Warning Lifted

Residents in Indonesia's Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) region are urged to remain vigilant after a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck on Saturday, August 15, 2026. Although the tsunami warning has been lifted by the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is emphasizing continued caution.

"Our priority is ensuring public safety and preventing additional casualties from the tsunami, aftershocks, or other associated hazards," stated Berton S.P. Panjaitan, Acting Head of BNPB's Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Center. He advised residents to stay away from coastal areas until further notice from BMKG.

Beyond the immediate coastal threat, BNPB is also instructing people to avoid entering buildings that have sustained damage or developed cracks due to the earthquake. This measure is a precaution against potential risks from aftershocks. "We are advising people not to enter buildings, especially those that are already cracked, as this poses a danger during aftershocks," Panjaitan added.

BNPB is actively coordinating with BMKG, regional disaster management agencies (BPBD), local governments, and other relevant parties to gather accurate information on the earthquake's impact. Rapid assessments are underway to collect data on casualties, damage to infrastructure, and the condition of health facilities and other buildings. Updates will be provided once verified information is received from the affected areas.