A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the northern coast of Flores Island in eastern Indonesia, resulting in at least 20 fatalities and six injuries, according to a report by AFP on August 15.
According to Yonhap News, AFP cited local rescue officials who reported that the earthquake occurred in the Nusa Tenggara Timur province, affecting four villages where the deaths were recorded.
One official stated, "According to reports, six people were injured, and two remain trapped under the rubble."
Authorities are focusing on locating the trapped victims, but rescue operations are facing challenges due to landslides that have blocked several roads.
The earthquake struck at 5:58 a.m. local time, followed by 52 aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 3.6 to 6.2. Tremors were felt across most areas of Flores Island, and local rescue teams are conducting operations throughout the region.
Indonesia is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.