Magnitude 7.7 Earthquake Strikes NTT, Triggering Evacuations and Casualties

On Saturday, August 15, 2026, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) at 4:58 AM local time. The epicenter was located 30 kilometers northeast of Mbay, Nagekeo, at a depth of 15 kilometers, according to the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).

The earthquake triggered minor tsunamis, with the highest wave recorded at 0.94 meters in Maurole, Ende. Following the quake, BMKG issued a tsunami warning, which was later lifted after confirming no significant threat remained.

As a result of the earthquake, 47 people have been reported dead, with the casualties primarily concentrated in the Manggarai region, where 24 fatalities occurred. Other affected areas include Manggarai Timur with 17 deaths, Sikka with 3, and isolated incidents in Ngada and Ende, according to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB).

“The most important thing is to ensure immediate rescue operations for victims and to assess the damage to homes and infrastructure.”Prasetyo Hadi, Minister of State Secretary

In response to the disaster, approximately 2,000 residents evacuated to higher ground due to initial tsunami warnings. The government has mobilized emergency response teams, including military and police, to assist in rescue operations and provide medical care to the injured.

BNPB reported that the earthquake caused significant infrastructure damage, with hundreds of homes and public facilities affected. The agency noted that the number of houses severely damaged is still being verified.

“The public is urged to stay calm but remain vigilant regarding potential aftershocks.”Lana Saria, Head of Geological Agency

Officials have emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance, as the region has experienced numerous aftershocks, with BMKG reporting at least 31 significant aftershocks by mid-afternoon on the same day. The largest aftershock was recorded at a magnitude of 6.2.

In light of this seismic activity, experts from the Geological Agency have advised residents to remain cautious and avoid damaged structures. They also urged the public to rely on verified information from official sources to prevent panic.

Historically, NTT is situated within a seismically active zone known as the Flores Back Arc Thrust, where tectonic plates frequently interact, leading to earthquakes. This recent event is reminiscent of a 1992 earthquake in the same region that resulted in a devastating tsunami.