Jakarta: Indonesia’s Flores Island was shaken by another earthquake on Monday, August 17, just days after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake devastated the region and killed dozens of people.
The latest tremor, measuring 5.7 magnitude, struck north-northwest of Ende in East Nusa Tenggara at around 8:46 a.m. local time, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. There were no immediate reports of additional casualties or major damage from the latest tremor.The new earthquake comes as rescue operations continue following Saturday’s devastating 7.7-magnitude quake. The death toll has risen to at least 53–54 people, with more than 130 people injured, while around 5,000 residents have been displaced and are staying in temporary shelters. More than 1,300 homes and other buildings have been damaged.
Rescue teams are facing major challenges due to landslides, blocked roads, damaged infrastructure and continuing aftershocks. Nearly 1,000 aftershocks have been recorded since the main earthquake, adding to fears among residents.A tsunami warning issued after Saturday’s earthquake was later lifted. Authorities have declared a 14-day emergency response in the affected region as relief and search-and-rescue operations continue.
Indonesia lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries.
