Flores Earthquake Update: 47 Dead as Rescue Continues

At least 47 people have been confirmed dead after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia's Flores island early Saturday, with rescuers now racing to find survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings in the city of Maumere and surrounding regencies.

What Happened in the Flores Earthquake?

The earthquake hit at 5:58 a.m. local time on August 15, 2026, with its epicenter about 42 miles (68 km) north-northwest of Ende in East Nusa Tenggara province and a shallow depth of roughly 6 miles (10 km). The shallow depth amplified shaking across the island, catching many people while they were still sleeping. Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) recorded more than 300 aftershocks, the strongest reaching magnitude 6.1, according to the national disaster mitigation agency BNPB.

The region sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an arc of intense seismic and volcanic activity where the Indo-Australian and Eurasian tectonic plates collide.

Damage and Rescue Efforts in Maumere

The hardest-hit area is Maumere, a port city in Sikka regency. Local media reported that the waiting area of the harbor collapsed while dozens of people were inside, and a pedestrian bridge leading to a ferry fell into the water, throwing people into the sea. Rescuers in Maumere have recovered 20 bodies, with at least six injured and two people still trapped under rubble, officials said.

Across Flores, BNPB said around 900 buildings were heavily damaged, including homes, hospitals, schools, places of worship and government offices. At least 157 homes were flattened and nearly 200 more were damaged, while more than 100 public facilities were destroyed. Roughly 5,000 people have been forced to leave their homes and are now staying in emergency shelters where rice, ready-to-eat meals, drinking water, blankets and medicine are being distributed.

Rescue operations are being hampered by damaged infrastructure. Landslides have blocked parts of the Trans-Flores highway, power outages have cut electricity in large areas, and communications with Nagekeo regency—closest to the epicenter—remain disrupted. "The roads are cut and we are working with what we have," one local official told reporters.

Why Did the Earthquake Trigger a Tsunami Warning?

The shallow offshore quake prompted a tsunami warning that sent coastal residents rushing to higher ground. Waves of up to 1.6 meters (5.3 feet) were recorded, and one village was blanketed in mud and debris. The warning was lifted about three hours later after sea levels stabilized.

This is not the first deadly quake in the area. The same region experienced a 1992 Flores earthquake that killed thousands, and a magnitude 7.5 event struck in 1992 near Maumere, triggering a tsunami.

Impact and What's Next

The disaster has dealt another blow to Indonesia's tourism-dependent economy on Flores, a popular destination for diving, snorkeling and visits to Komodo National Park. Many Dutch and international tourists were on the island during the quake, with some describing the shaking as "the most terrifying moment of my life."

The same day, a separate 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck the northern part of Sumatra, and a 5.8-magnitude quake was recorded off Papua New Guinea, highlighting the region's elevated seismic activity. Authorities expect the death toll to rise as Indonesia disaster relief teams reach remote villages cut off by landslides.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people died in the Flores earthquake?

At least 47 people have been confirmed dead, with officials warning the toll will likely rise as rescue teams reach isolated areas.

What was the magnitude of the Flores earthquake?

The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.7 and struck at a shallow depth, which increased its destructive power.

Was there a tsunami after the Flores earthquake?

Yes, a tsunami warning was issued and waves of up to 1.6 meters were recorded. The warning was lifted about three hours later.

Where is Flores island located?

Flores is an island in East Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia, located within the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire.