Indonesia Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 68, Thousands Await Aid

The death toll from the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Indonesia on Saturday has risen to 68, with over 200 people injured.

Thousands of people are awaiting aid as rescuers comb through collapsed buildings in search of those trapped. The quake, which hit off the coast of Flores island at a depth of 10 to 15 kilometers, is the country's deadliest since 2022. Maria Florida Nogo Kelen gave emergency birth during the tremors in East Nusa Tenggara province.

More than 1,300 homes were damaged, with nearly 250 destroyed on Flores alone, and dozens of public buildings, including educational and health facilities, were affected. Approximately 12,800 people were unable to return to their homes by Monday morning, dispersing among temporary shelters. Residents, including Emilianus Oro, reported a lack of clean water, children contracting diarrhea, and one older person suffering a stroke, with some stating they had not received aid.

The region has experienced nearly 1,600 aftershocks, including a 5.6 magnitude jolt on Monday morning, causing many to sleep outdoors for fear of further collapses. Landslides have blocked roads across East Nusa Tenggara province, complicating rescue and aid delivery efforts. Dr Melinda, the sole physician at the decimated Dampek Health Centre, appealed for help, stating she could not cope with hundreds of victims.

The Indonesian Air Force is bringing 13 tonnes of emergency aid via three planes and deploying helicopters to isolated communities. The province's governor declared a 14-day state of emergency on Sunday. President Prabowo Subianto asked participants at Indonesia’s Independence Day ceremony to pray for those affected.