NTT earthquake and Kalimantan fires cause widespread damage

A massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Flores, Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT), on August 15, 2026, triggering approximately 4,000 aftershocks. As of August 22, 2026, the National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB) reported that 53,971 houses have been damaged. This includes 19,006 units classified as heavily damaged, 11,777 as moderately damaged, and 23,188 as lightly damaged.

Damage is widespread across several regencies, including Manggarai Timur, Manggarai Barat, Ngada, Nagekeo, Ende, and Sikka. BNPB officials stated that these figures are preliminary and undergoing verification to ensure data accuracy.

In addition to the seismic activity in NTT, Kalimantan is facing significant forest fires with thousands of hotspots affecting local communities and neighboring countries. In response to these dual crises, various Indonesian public figures and organizations have launched fundraising efforts and social media campaigns to provide aid and prayers for the affected regions.