A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the Flores Sea off Eastern Nusa Tenggara province early Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Kabul 24: According to seismological reports, the epicenter was located at a shallow depth of approximately 10 to 15 kilometers, roughly 68 kilometers northwest of Ende city and near the Nagekeo region. The shallow focal depth significantly amplified the tremors felt across adjacent coastal cities.
Casualties and Infrastructure Damage at Maumere Port
Violent shaking triggered widespread panic in Ende, Maumere, and surrounding districts. Reports from Maumere indicate severe structural damage, with major sections of the Lauren Say (Elsay) passenger terminal collapsing under the intensity of the quake. Video footage circulating online shows terrified residents fleeing the scene as a dense plume of dust enveloped the crumbling structure.
Local authorities and emergency services have confirmed at least one casualty and multiple injuries at the port terminal. Rescue operations and damage assessments remain ongoing, and officials caution that casualty figures may rise as cleared debris is searched.
Tsunami Alert Status and Severe Aftershocks
Following the mainshock, disaster management agencies immediately issued a tsunami warning for nearby coastal zones. Although minor tsunami waves were registered along several stretches of the coastline, the alert was subsequently lifted after sea levels stabilized and expert evaluations were completed.
However, hazards persist across the affected region due to intense seismic activity. Numerous strong aftershocks, including several measuring above magnitude 6.0, continue to rattle the area.
Emergency officials have advised residents to remain vigilant, avoid damaged buildings, and shelter in open, safe locations while response teams deliver critical aid and monitor further developments.
