M6.0 Aftershock in Ruteng, NTT Today: One Resident Dies

A significant M6.0 aftershock rattled Ruteng in Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province on Thursday, adding to the ongoing seismic activity in the region. The tremor, which occurred at 10:46 AM local time with its epicenter 43 kilometers northeast of Ruteng at a depth of 10 kilometers, did not trigger a tsunami warning.

Tragically, the M6.0 aftershock resulted in one death. Servolus Jebarus, a 56-year-old resident, succumbed to a heart attack induced by the panic and fear that swept through the community during the earthquake. His relative, Hiro, recounted that Jebarus, who had a history of heart disease, collapsed shortly after the shaking began and the ensuing public outcry.

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The residents' screams were heard during the first earthquake, and panic ensued inside the house. The victim then fell limp.

Despite immediate efforts to provide emergency medical treatment at RSUD Ben Mboi Ruteng, medical teams were unable to save Jebarus's life. His passing has left his wife and five children in deep mourning. This event highlights the devastating human impact of the continuous aftershocks following the major M7.7 earthquake on August 15.

Local authorities and medical teams are urging residents to remain calm but vigilant, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety without succumbing to excessive panic, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions. Since the main earthquake, which caused a small tsunami, the region has experienced over 3,400 aftershocks ranging in magnitude from 1.0 to 6.2. The head of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) estimates that aftershocks could continue for another two to three weeks, advising the public to stay alert.

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Don't panic, but remain vigilant. According to BMKG, aftershocks may still occur for the next 2-3 weeks. However, these earthquakes will not be as strong.