A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia's Flores region early Saturday, damaging homes and public facilities and prompting authorities to issue a tsunami warning across parts of the country.

The shallow undersea earthquake was recorded at 5:58 a.m. local time, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred at a depth of around 10 kilometres, with its epicentre located approximately 68 kilometres north-northwest of Ende in East Nusa Tenggara province.

Authorities had reported no immediate casualties at the time of the initial updates, although several buildings were damaged. The strong tremor was followed by multiple aftershocks, raising concerns about further structural damage in affected areas.

Tsunami Warning Issued

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency issued a tsunami warning covering parts of East Nusa Tenggara, West Nusa Tenggara, South Sulawesi and Southeast Sulawesi.

Residents living along vulnerable coastlines were urged to move to higher ground and stay away from beaches and riverbanks.

Officials were also monitoring coastal tide gauges for possible changes in sea levels following the undersea earthquake.

Buildings Damaged in Flores

The earthquake was strongly felt across large parts of Flores Island. Initial reports indicated damage to residential buildings and public infrastructure, although authorities had not immediately provided a complete assessment of the destruction.

Residents described scenes of panic as people rushed towards higher ground after the tsunami warning was issued.

Yohanna Embu, a resident of Sikka in East Nusa Tenggara, said several structures were damaged by the intense shaking. She also reported damage at the Pelni port terminal in Maumere, where part of the waiting room reportedly collapsed.

Emergency officials continued assessing the situation as aftershocks were recorded in the region.

Shallow Quake Raises Concern

The earthquake's relatively shallow depth increased the risk of strong surface shaking and potential damage in nearby coastal areas.

Authorities urged residents not to return to coastal locations until official instructions indicated that it was safe to do so.

The situation remained under close observation as emergency teams assessed affected communities and monitored the possibility of additional aftershocks or changes in sea levels.

Indonesia Lies on Ring of Fire

Indonesia is among the world's most earthquake- and volcano-prone countries. The archipelago consists of more than 17,000 islands and lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area marked by active tectonic boundaries, volcanoes and frequent seismic activity.

The country's location makes major earthquakes a recurring threat, particularly for communities living along its extensive coastline.

Authorities are expected to continue providing updates on casualties, structural damage and tsunami conditions as assessment and monitoring operations continue.