Punjab Newsline |

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Indonesia’s Flores Island on Saturday, causing widespread destruction and triggering landslides across several areas. Several buildings collapsed, roads were blocked by debris, and frightened residents rushed out of their homes following the strong tremors.

At least 38 people have been killed in the earthquake, with the death toll expected to rise as rescue teams reach more affected areas. BNPB chief Suharyanto said search and rescue operations were continuing across the disaster-hit region.

The earthquake triggered landslides in several parts of Flores. At least 20 bodies have been recovered from Sikka, West Manggarai and East Manggarai areas. Eight people were among those killed after a landslide struck Reok village.

Six people were injured in the incident and taken to hospital, while two villagers were reportedly trapped under the debris and remain missing.

Several homes and government buildings were damaged by the powerful earthquake. Videos emerging from the affected areas showed collapsed structures and debris scattered across roads.

Residents were seen fleeing their homes in panic as aftershocks and the initial tremors caused widespread fear.

Authorities initially issued a tsunami warning following the earthquake, prompting concern among communities living along the coast. The warning was later lifted after authorities detected no significant change in sea levels.

Rescue and relief operations are currently underway. Emergency teams are searching through collapsed structures and landslide debris for survivors while authorities assess the extent of the damage.