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East Nusa Tenggara earthquake leaves 71 dead and triggers thousands of aftershocks
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on August 15, 2026, has caused significant devastation. As of August 19, the death toll has risen to 71 people, with over 1.9 million people affected across the region. The disaster has caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including approximately 400 schools and numerous homes.
Seismic activity remains high, with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) recording over 3,000 aftershocks. While the frequency of these tremors shows a downward trend, experts estimate that seismic activity may not stabilize for another two to three weeks. Some aftershocks have reached magnitudes as high as 6.2.
Relief efforts are underway through various channels. The National Alms Agency (Baznas) is distributing food, medical supplies, and setting up emergency kitchens. The Yogyakarta regional government has contributed 1 billion IDR in emergency funds, and corporate entities like PNM are providing essential goods to vulnerable groups.
In terms of tourism and transport, several sites remain closed for safety, including Kelimutu National Park and Wae Rebo. While some airports like Komodo and Maumere remain operational with adjusted schedules, others such as Ende and Ruteng have faced flight cancellations. Authorities are also urging the establishment of emergency schools to ensure education continues for affected children.
Entities
BAZNAS · BMKG · BNPB · East Nusa Tenggara · Flores · Nagekeo · Nusa Tenggara Timur
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how well corroborated each claim is across sources.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A recent 5.1 magnitude aftershock occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers. www.inews.id
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Aftershock activity is expected to stabilize within two to three weeks. berita.liputan6.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Several tourist sites, including Kelimutu National Park and Wae Rebo, remain closed due to safety concerns. en.antaranews.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The death toll from the earthquake has reached 71 people. daerah.sindonews.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The earthquake has affected 1,915,194 people in East Nusa Tenggara. daerah.sindonews.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] BMKG recorded 3,002 aftershocks following the main earthquake. mediaindonesia.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Approximately 400 schools have been damaged by the earthquake. rmol.id
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Yogyakarta regional government provided 1 billion IDR in emergency financial aid to NTT. www.antaranews.com