Flores Earthquake Death Toll Hits 68: 13,000 Displaced

The Flores earthquake death toll has climbed to 68 as rescue workers continue searching for survivors under the rubble, Indonesian authorities confirmed on Monday. The 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the island of Flores in East Nusa Tenggara province on Saturday, August 15, 2026, displacing nearly 13,000 people and triggering more than 300 aftershocks, some reaching magnitude 6.1.

What Happened in the Flores Earthquake?

The shallow quake struck about 30 km northeast of Mbay at a depth of roughly 10–15 km, intensifying ground shaking across the island. According to Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), at least 68 people died and 213 were injured. More than 914 houses and dozens of public buildings, including schools and health facilities, were severely damaged. Small tsunami waves up to 0.94 metres were recorded before the warning was lifted.

This is the deadliest earthquake to hit Indonesia since the 2022 West Java disaster. The region sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, and the 1992 Flores earthquake and tsunami killed about 2,500 people on the same island, making residents especially alert to seismic threats.

Rescue and Relief Efforts Hampered by Damaged Infrastructure

Relief operations are facing serious obstacles because large parts of Flores' infrastructure have been destroyed. Many roads are blocked by landslides, and aid workers report that some hospitals are so damaged that injured people are being treated in tents. The Indonesian Air Force has deployed planes and helicopters to reach isolated communities, airlifting about 13 tonnes of emergency aid including food, water, clothing and medical supplies.

How Are Rescue Teams Reaching Isolated Communities?

• Military aircraft and helicopters are flying supplies to areas cut off by landslides.
• Rescue teams are manually clearing debris and searching collapsed buildings.
• Emergency tents have been set up at schools, police stations and government offices.
• The governor has declared a 14-day state of emergency.

"Many roads are destroyed or completely blocked by landslides," relief workers said. "Thousands of people remain isolated and have not yet been reached by emergency services."

Save the Children reported that over 8,000 children face safety risks and disrupted education. Displaced residents have expressed frustration over the perceived slow government response, with many sleeping in tents or in the open next to their collapsed homes.

Impact on Independence Day and Local Communities

The disaster unfolded just before Indonesia's Independence Day celebrations on August 17. During the ceremony in Jakarta, President Prabowo asked the nation to pray for the victims and observed a moment of silence. Flores is a popular tourist destination, known for diving, snorkelling and the Komodo National Park tourism industry, which may face long-term economic effects from the earthquake.

For context, the earthquake preparedness in Indonesia has improved since the 1992 disaster, but mountainous terrain and scattered villages still complicate rapid response. The table below compares the two major Flores earthquakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the Flores earthquake?

The earthquake resulted from shallow thrust faulting along the Flores back-arc thrust, where the Australian and Sunda tectonic plates converge.

How strong was the Flores earthquake?

The main shock measured magnitude 7.7, with more than 300 aftershocks, the strongest reaching 6.1.

How many people were displaced?

Nearly 13,000 people have been displaced, according to BNPB, and are sheltering in tents, schools and government buildings.

Is Flores safe to visit after the earthquake?

Travel is currently discouraged in affected areas due to damaged roads, ongoing aftershocks and active rescue operations.

How can I help earthquake victims in Indonesia?

Reputable organisations such as the Indonesian Red Cross and Save the Children are accepting donations for emergency relief.