The Indonesia earthquake damaged buildings across Flores and prompted coastal evacuations after authorities issued a tsunami warning that was later lifted.

A powerful Indonesia earthquake of magnitude 7.7 struck near the Flores region early Saturday, August 15, sending strong tremors across parts of eastern Indonesia and prompting authorities to issue a tsunami warning. The shallow earthquake struck shortly before 6 am local time, with its epicentre about 68 km north-northwest of Ende in East Nusa Tenggara province.

The United States Geological Survey recorded the earthquake at a depth of around 10 km. Several aftershocks followed the main tremor, adding to concerns among residents and emergency teams.

Tsunami Warning Issued

Indonesia's authorities urged people living along vulnerable coastlines to move towards higher ground after the earthquake raised fears of tsunami waves. Thousands of residents evacuated as a precaution.

The tsunami warning remained in place for about three hours before authorities lifted it after monitoring showed no major continuing threat. Waves measuring less than one metre were recorded in some areas.

Death Toll Reported

The earthquake caused casualties and significant damage in several communities on Flores Island. At least five people were reported dead, with victims in Sikka and Manggarai regencies, according to regional authorities cited by international news agencies. Indonesia's national disaster agency initially confirmed one death and four injuries as assessments continued.

Officials warned that casualty and damage figures could change as emergency teams reach more affected areas.

Buildings Suffer Damage

The earthquake brought down buildings and damaged homes and public facilities in parts of Flores. In Maumere, residents fled after structures were damaged, while hospitals moved some patients outdoors as a precaution.

Power outages and communication disruptions also affected several locations. Reports indicated that landslides occurred in parts of the affected region, creating additional difficulties for emergency responders.

Residents Flee To Safety

The tsunami warning triggered a rapid evacuation in several coastal communities. In Nagekeo, around 2,000 people reportedly moved to safer locations as authorities monitored the situation.

Residents also reported strong shaking lasting up to about a minute in parts of East and West Nusa Tenggara and southern Sulawesi. Authorities continued urging people to remain cautious because aftershocks could cause further damage to weakened structures.

Rescue And Assessment

Emergency agencies have begun assessing damaged buildings and infrastructure while local authorities coordinate assistance for affected communities. Rescue personnel face additional challenges from aftershocks, damaged roads, power failures and landslides.

Hospitals in affected areas have prepared emergency treatment arrangements, while authorities continue collecting information on injuries, structural damage and the needs of displaced residents.

Aftershocks Keep Watch

Indonesia sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a highly active seismic zone where earthquakes and volcanic activity occur frequently. The Flores region has experienced destructive earthquakes in the past, making emergency preparedness particularly important for local communities.

Authorities are continuing to monitor aftershocks and coastal conditions. The Indonesia earthquake has prompted a major emergency response across Flores, with officials now focused on assisting affected residents, assessing structural damage and ensuring communities remain prepared for further tremors.