International
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A massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the region of Flores in Indonesia on early Saturday, August 15, causing an emergency warning for a tsunami and resulting in residents along the coastline relocating to safer grounds.
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia’s Flores region on August 15, triggering a tsunami warning and causing residents to evacuate to higher ground. The shallow quake, located northwest of Ende, resulted in reported building damage but no immediate casualties.
Based on the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the shallow earthquake took place approximately 68 kilometers north-northwest of Ende in the province of East Nusa Tenggara, with a depth of roughly 10 kilometers.
Aftershocks such as 5.9, 5.6, and 6.1 magnitude followed after the major earthquake.
Tsunami Warning Issued For Parts Of Indonesia
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) issued an early tsunami warning following the earthquake.
The agency warned that tsunami waves could affect parts of East Nusa Tenggara, West Nusa Tenggara, South Sulawesi and Southeast Sulawesi. Residents in coastal areas were advised to stay away from beaches and move to higher ground.
Breaking : News Visuals shows the moments of intensity of 7.7 Magnitude of Earthquake in Indonesia the whole building shaking and peoples running in Panic pic.twitter.com/QkBs3o5Flg
— World Updates (@Updatesofwworld) August 14, 2026
Early reports indicated that tsunami waves of around 19 to 30 centimetres had been detected. Authorities continued to monitor the situation as aftershocks were reported.
Residents Flee To Higher Ground
The earthquake caused panic in parts of Flores, with residents leaving coastal areas as a precaution.
In Maumere, residents were seen moving towards higher ground after the tsunami warning was issued. Local reports also indicated that the sea level appeared to recede in some areas, increasing concerns among residents.
Videos and television images showed people gathering in safer locations, while some buildings and structures were reported damaged.
A hospital worker in the region described the shaking as sudden and frightening. Patients reportedly fled the hospital during the tremor, while cracks were seen in some walls.
Buildings Damaged, No Immediate Casualties Confirmed
The full extent of the damage was still being assessed in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake.
The Associated Press reported damage to buildings and homes, including a collapsed waiting-room structure at the Pelni port terminal in Maumere. No casualties had been immediately confirmed in the initial reports. Authorities continued checking affected areas as further aftershocks remained possible.
inputs from PTI
