Archive · 16 Aug 2026
Indonesia earthquake kills 53 on Flores Island, thousands await aid
A very strong earthquake shook an island in Indonesia called Flores.
The earthquake happened early Saturday morning and was so powerful that it knocked down many buildings.
Sadly, 53 people lost their lives and 135 people were hurt.
The shaking did not stop, and many smaller shakes followed.
Because of the danger, thousands of people left their homes and went to high hills or open fields to be safe.
They are waiting for help and need food, water, medicine, and tents.
The government is sending planes, helicopters, and ships with lots of supplies to help them.
Some hospitals were damaged, so doctors treated patients outside in tents.
Even a baby was born safely during the emergency.
Everyone is working hard to help the people who lost their homes.
A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off the northern coast of Flores Island, Indonesia, early Saturday (Aug 15).
The quake killed 53 people and injured 135, with no missing persons reported.
Nearly 1,000 aftershocks followed, and tsunami warnings were later lifted despite waves up to 1.6 meters.
Thousands of displaced residents awaited relief on Sunday (Aug 16), with 914 homes severely damaged and 93 schools, 36 health facilities, and 38 government offices affected.
The government dispatched 275 tonnes of aid (50,000 packages), and BNPB deployed helicopters, airplanes, a naval vessel, and search and rescue ships.
- Who
- Residents of Flores Island, Indonesia, and disaster response agencies including BNPB, the Red Cross, and the European Union.
- What
- A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off Flores Island, killing 53 people, injuring 135, and displacing thousands.
- When
- The earthquake struck early Saturday (Aug 15); relief efforts continued on Sunday (Aug 16).
- Where
- Flores Island, Indonesia, off the island's northern coast.
- Why
- The shallow earthquake triggered nearly 1,000 aftershocks, damaged critical infrastructure, and forced thousands to flee to higher ground.
Concern for safety and shelter
Focus on infrastructure and aid logistics
Returning to buildings
Concern for safety and shelter
Residents should stay away from damaged buildings and remain in outdoor shelters until structures are verified safe.
Focus on infrastructure and aid logistics
Authorities warned residents against returning to compromised buildings due to structural risks, prioritizing safety.
- Magnitude
- 7.7
- Deaths
- 53
- Injured
- 135
- Aftershocks
- Nearly 1,000
- Homes severely damaged
- 914
- Educational sites affected
- 93
- Health facilities affected
- 36
- Government offices affected
- 38