Flores island: A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake has devastated Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia, resulting in the deaths of at least 53 individuals. According to Thai News Agency, the seismic event on August 15 has led to significant destruction, with rescue operations in full swing in areas that remain isolated due to the disaster.
Data from Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reveals that 137 people sustained injuries, and a staggering number of homes have been damaged-1,543 severely, 328 moderately, and 532 slightly. The earthquake also affected 87 schools, 50 religious sites, and 76 government office buildings. As a result, more than 5,600 residents have been evacuated to safer locations, with rescue efforts ongoing in the stricken regions.
Complicating the rescue operations are landslides and the destruction of several key roads. Some hospitals have incurred damage, necessitating the establishment of temporary medical facilities. In response, the government is planning to set up field hospitals to manage the influx of patients.
The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported nearly 1,000 aftershocks following the initial quake, with 46 of these being felt by the populace. The tsunami warning issued post-quake has since been lifted after BMKG determined there was no substantial rise in sea level that would threaten coastal residents.
Efforts are currently focused on mobilizing resources to expedite the search and rescue of victims, alongside the distribution of aid and the restoration of critical infrastructure in the affected areas.