An earthquake struck eastern Indonesia Saturday (15 Aug) morning, with early reports saying that at least 40 people have been killed.
According to the Bangkok Post, people were reportedly trapped in buildings.
Rescue and relief efforts are currently underway, but landslides and damage to roads are causing delays.
According to the Jakarta Globe, the 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Flores Island at 4.58am local time.
Videos circulating online show people fleeing into the streets as buildings shook violently, with some even collapsing.
Source: @daryono_eq_talk on X
The Indonesian government is deploying emergency response teams with a priority on rescuing people trapped underneath rubble and providing supplies to those affected by the disaster.
They have also urged local authorities to provide timely and verified information to the people.
Source: @Jateng_Twit on X
“The government must be present not only with assistance but also with reliable information,” one politician said.
In the early hours of the disaster, Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) urged people to move to higher ground in case of a tsunami.
Although they have since lifted that warning, BMKG is continuing to monitor sea levels. The full damage of the quake is still being assessed.
As thousands evacuate their homes in search of safety, authorities are receiving reports of traffic congestion and power outages across the region.
Also read: Japan hit by historic flooding after record rainfall, at least 8 dead & thousands stranded
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Featured image adapted from @Jateng_Twit on X and @daryono_eq_talk on X.