A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck eastern Indonesia early on Saturday, specifically the Flores region. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at 5:58 local time at a depth of 10 kilometres. The epicentre was located 68 kilometres northwest of the town of Endea, which is situated in the East Nusa Tenggara province.
Following the initial strong quake, two additional earthquakes occurred. One of them measured magnitude 6.1. These aftershocks further heightened concern among the local population and authorities, although officials stated that no casualties or material damage had been reported immediately.
Due to the severity of the earthquake, a tsunami warning was issued immediately. The warning triggered a mass response from residents, with thousands seeking safety on higher ground. Thousands of people evacuated from coastal settlements as a precautionary measure while the risk of waves was being assessed.
Although the earthquakes were strong and caused panic among the local population, there are currently no confirmed reports of injuries or damaged property. The situation is being monitored in real time, with Indonesian authorities overseeing the situation in the Flores region to respond quickly should new signs of danger emerge.
