Jakarta: A powerful earthquake struck eastern Indonesia on Saturday, leaving a trail of destruction and panic across several areas. The 7.7-magnitude tremor killed at least 38 people, damaged buildings and triggered emergency response operations in the affected regions.
Massive Tremors Shake Eastern Indonesia
The earthquake struck near Flores Island, with strong shaking reported across parts of East Nusa Tenggara, West Nusa Tenggara and nearby regions. Many residents rushed out of their homes as buildings shook violently and debris fell.
Several houses, public buildings and other structures suffered damage following the powerful quake. Rescue teams were deployed to search collapsed buildings and help people trapped under rubble.
Tsunami Warning Issued, Later Withdrawn
Following the undersea earthquake, authorities issued a tsunami warning as a precautionary measure. Small waves were recorded in some coastal areas, but the alert was later canceled after officials determined there was no major tsunami threat.
Emergency agencies continued monitoring the situation as multiple aftershocks followed the main earthquake.
Rescue Teams Face Challenges
Relief operations were affected by damaged roads, landslides and communication problems in some areas. Rescue workers struggled to reach remote locations near the epicentre while authorities assessed the full scale of damage.
Thousands of residents were moved to safer locations as officials focused on providing emergency assistance.
Indonesia's Vulnerability to Earthquakes
Indonesia frequently experiences earthquakes because it lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for intense tectonic activity. The country has witnessed several devastating earthquakes and tsunamis in the past.