JAKARTA: A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off Indonesia’s Flores Island early Saturday, prompting authorities to issue a tsunami warning for parts of the region.
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at a relatively shallow depth of around 10 kilometres, with its epicentre located about 68 kilometres northwest of Ende in East Nusa Tenggara province.
The strong tremor was followed by several aftershocks, including earthquakes measuring 5.6 and 5.9 magnitude, according to initial reports. Indonesia’s meteorological authorities issued a tsunami warning following the earthquake and urged people in vulnerable coastal areas to stay away from beaches and riverbanks and move to safer, higher ground as a precaution.
The full extent of damage and casualties was not immediately clear as authorities continued to assess the situation. Emergency agencies were also monitoring coastal areas for possible changes in sea levels and further aftershocks.
The earthquake struck in one of the world’s most seismically active regions. Indonesia lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the movement of tectonic plates frequently causes earthquakes and volcanic activity.
The shallow depth of Saturday’s earthquake has raised concerns about stronger shaking in areas close to the epicentre. Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the situation closely as the risk of additional aftershocks remains.
The situation is developing, with officials assessing possible damage and the potential impact along affected coastal areas.
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