DEADLY 7.7-MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE STRIKES INDONESIA AS RESCUE OPERATIONS CONTINUE
A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Indonesia on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at approximately 1:55 p.m. local time , leaving at least 53 people dead, more than 130 injured and around 5,000 residents displaced as rescue teams continue searching affected communities. The earthquake struck off the coast of Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara, triggering landslides, damaging buildings and disrupting vital roads and communications. The disaster has become one of Indonesia's most serious recent earthquakes, with authorities facing significant challenges in reaching communities close to the epicentre. Rescue operations have been slowed by damaged roads, landslides and repeated aftershocks, leaving some areas difficult to access. DEATH TOLL RISES AS RESCUERS SEARCH FOR SURVIVORS The death toll increased as emergency workers recovered additional bodies from affected areas. According to the latest reports, at least 53 people have died, while more than 130 other...