20 Dead Initially, Toll Rises to 38 After Powerful Indonesia Quake; Rescue Teams Search Rubble

20 Dead Initially, Toll Rises to 38 After Powerful Indonesia Quake; Rescue Teams Search Rubble
Jitendra Kumar
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The death toll from a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck off Indonesia’s Flores Island has risen sharply as emergency teams continue to reach damaged areas. Initial reports said at least 20 people had died, but Indonesian officials later confirmed that at least 38 people were killed.

The earthquake struck early Saturday in East Nusa Tenggara province. The strong tremor caused buildings to collapse, triggered landslides and disrupted power and communications across affected communities.

Rescuers in Maumere and other areas began searching through damaged buildings shortly after the earthquake. Some victims were found beneath rubble, while others were injured and taken for medical treatment. Officials warned that the death toll could change as emergency teams reach locations that remain difficult to access.

The situation was particularly challenging in areas affected by landslides. Mud, rocks and debris blocked roads, preventing rescue vehicles from reaching some communities. The Trans-Flores highway was also damaged in places, further slowing the emergency response.

Authorities said about 2,000 people evacuated after the earthquake. Many residents moved away from buildings because of concerns about aftershocks and structural instability. Some spent time in open areas rather than returning home.

The earthquake also caused widespread fear along the coast because it occurred offshore. A tsunami warning was issued shortly after the quake, prompting residents to move toward higher ground. The warning was eventually lifted after officials found no continuing significant tsunami threat.

Reports said tsunami waves of less than one metre were recorded in some areas before the warning ended. Although the waves were limited, the alert added urgency to evacuation efforts.

The earthquake was followed by strong aftershocks. These continued to worry residents and rescue workers because damaged structures can become even more unstable after repeated shaking.

Emergency authorities have been working to determine the full extent of the destruction. Damage has been reported to homes, warehouses, government buildings and other infrastructure. Power failures have affected communities, while communication disruptions have made it difficult for officials to gather information.

The disaster has also drawn attention to the continuing earthquake risk faced by Indonesia. The country sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where several tectonic plates meet and generate frequent seismic activity.

Flores has experienced major earthquakes in the past. The 1992 Flores earthquake generated a devastating tsunami and caused thousands of deaths, making the region particularly sensitive to warnings of offshore earthquakes.

For now, rescue remains the priority. Search teams are checking collapsed buildings and landslide zones for survivors, while authorities are arranging transportation, medical assistance and temporary shelter for displaced families.

The rise in the death toll from 20 to 38 illustrates how difficult it can be to assess casualties immediately after a major earthquake. Remote communities, damaged roads and communication failures can delay the arrival of rescue teams and the confirmation of victims.

As operations continue, Indonesian authorities are expected to provide further updates on casualties, injuries and infrastructure damage.

Journalist Details

Jitendra Kumar
Jitendra Kumar is an Indian journalist and social activist from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh is known as the senior journalist and founder of Xpert Times Network Private Limited.