Flores Island earthquake leaves at least 70 dead and 22,000 displaced

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Flores Island, Indonesia, on Saturday has resulted in a rising death toll and mass displacement. Recent reports indicate at least 70 people have died, with varying casualty counts provided by different agencies, including the Ministry of Health which reported nearly 1,200 injured.

The disaster has forced more than 22,000 people to flee their homes. Displaced residents are currently seeking shelter in public centers or with relatives across several districts, including East Manggarai, Manggarai, Nagekeo, Ngada, Sikka, and Ende.

Humanitarian teams are active in the affected areas, noting an urgent need for food, clean water, medical supplies, and stretchers. The provincial government has declared a 14-day state of emergency to coordinate relief efforts. Since the initial quake, approximately 1,000 aftershocks have been recorded in the region.