Indonesia Earthquake: Death Toll Rises to 47 as Rescuers Search for Survivors

At least 47 people have been killed after a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck eastern Indonesia, with rescue teams continuing to search through collapsed buildings and reach communities cut off by landslides.

The earthquake struck off Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara early Saturday, causing widespread destruction across several areas, including Nagekeo, Sikka, Manggarai and East Manggarai.

Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) raised the death toll to 47 as emergency teams gained access to more affected areas. About 50 people were reported injured, while authorities warned that the number of casualties could increase as search operations continue.

The shallow earthquake, which occurred at a depth of about 10 kilometres, triggered widespread panic and caused homes and public buildings to collapse. More than 150 homes, along with schools, healthcare facilities and government buildings, were damaged, according to disaster officials.

In Maumere, rescuers recovered 20 bodies and continued searching for people believed to be trapped beneath rubble. Emergency workers have been operating in difficult conditions, with landslides blocking roads and disruptions to electricity and communications hampering rescue efforts.

Around 2,000 residents in areas close to the epicentre were evacuated to temporary shelters as authorities warned people to stay away from damaged structures because of continuing aftershocks.

The earthquake initially prompted a tsunami warning for parts of the region. The warning was later lifted after authorities recorded only relatively small waves in affected coastal areas. More than 200 aftershocks were recorded, including several strong tremors, according to reports.

The Indonesian government has deployed additional emergency resources, including helicopters and a rescue vessel, to support operations in communities that are difficult to reach by road.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is also preparing assistance for people displaced by the disaster, while authorities have begun sending emergency supplies to affected communities.

Flores is located along Indonesia’s seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire, making the region particularly vulnerable to earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Authorities say the immediate priority remains rescuing people trapped under rubble, treating the injured, providing shelter for displaced residents and assessing the full extent of the damage.

With rescue teams still reaching previously inaccessible areas, officials fear the death toll could rise further.