Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Indonesia, killing at least 38
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Ende in Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province early Saturday morning. The quake, at a depth of 10 kilometers, triggered a tsunami warning that was later lifted, but caused widespread destruction in Maumere and Ruteng. At least 38 people have been confirmed dead as buildings collapsed and landslides blocked the Trans-Flores highway. Communication disruptions and power outages continue to hamper search and rescue efforts across the Flores region.
Date: August 15, 2026
Location: East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Conflict: None
Category: other
Severity: CRITICAL
Casualties reported: 38
Displaced: 5,000
Source: NPR / WLRN