A major earthquake has struck Indonesia’s Flores island, killing at least 47 people as rescue teams continue searching damaged buildings for survivors.

The magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck shortly before 05:00 local time on Saturday, according to Indonesia’s meteorology and geophysics agency. The earthquake occurred at a depth of about 15km.

Hundreds of Buildings Damaged

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) said preliminary assessments indicate that more than 900 homes and hundreds of other buildings were severely damaged.

The main earthquake was followed by 341 aftershocks, adding to the difficulties faced by residents and emergency workers.

Officials have warned that the full extent of the destruction remains unclear as rescue and assessment operations continue.

Manggarai Among Worst-Affected Areas

Manggarai province has reported some of the highest number of fatalities.

Preliminary figures show 24 deaths in Manggarai, while 17 people have died in East Manggarai. Three fatalities were recorded in Sikka, with at least one death reported in each of Ngada, Ende and West Manggarai.

At least two people suffered serious injuries, while another 11 sustained minor injuries.

Tremors were reportedly felt across a wide area, including parts of Bima Regency and City to the west.

Thousands Remain in Shelters

More than 5,000 people remain in evacuation shelters following the disaster.

Authorities have sent around 10,500 aid packages to affected communities as emergency teams work to provide food and other essential supplies.

Rescue workers are continuing to search damaged structures while officials assess the needs of communities affected by the earthquake.

Another Major Earthquake Hits Indonesia

The disaster was compounded by reports of another magnitude 6.9 earthquake at the opposite end of Indonesia.

The back-to-back earthquakes highlight the country’s exposure to seismic activity. Indonesia sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

For communities in Flores and other affected regions, the immediate priority remains finding survivors, treating the injured and providing shelter and emergency assistance.