The death toll from a powerful earthquake in Indonesia continues to rise. According to the latest data, 51 people have been killed, reports infohub.kz.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck on the morning of August 15 in East Nusa Tenggara province. The tremors triggered landslides that blocked roads, significantly complicating rescue efforts.
Deputy Health Minister Benjamin Paulus Octavianus said the death toll has reached 51. In addition, 36 people were seriously injured, and 77 others sustained minor injuries.
In the Sikka region, more than 3,300 people have taken shelter at a sports arena or in makeshift shelters. Many residents are afraid to return to their homes due to ongoing aftershocks and are spending nights outdoors.
About 341 aftershocks have been recorded since the main earthquake. More than 1,300 houses were damaged. Rescuers have managed to reach some areas of Maumere that were previously cut off by landslides.
More than 3,500 military and police personnel have been deployed to deal with the aftermath. Due to power outages, 20 gas stations are not operating.
Authorities in East Nusa Tenggara are considering declaring a state of emergency, which would allow mobilizing additional resources and funding for rescue operations.
Indonesia is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates collide, making earthquakes and volcanic eruptions a regular occurrence.