Massive 7.4 Quake Rocks Indonesia in Early Hours – Tsunami Warning Issued
Powerful Tremor Strikes Flores Island
A huge 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck north of Indonesia’s Flores island in the East Nusa Tenggara province around 3.20am, sparking panic among locals. The tremor lasted for several minutes, shaking the area and sending terrified residents rushing into the streets.
Chaos as People Flee Homes
Nuraini, a resident of Adonara island, described the terrifying moments: “I was in the field. People ran in panic. I am still… scared.” Agustinus Florianus from Maumere town told Reuters, “Everyone ran out into the street” as the quake rattled their homes.
Tsunami Warnings Triggered Across Multiple Regions
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) initially reported the quake as magnitude 7.4 and immediately issued a “potential tsunami” alert. Tsunami warnings have been issued for Maluku, East Nusa Tenggara, West Nusa Tenggara, and parts of Sulawesi. The quake struck 112 km (69.59 miles) northeast of Larantuka at a depth of 12 km.
A strong 5.6 aftershock hit Larantuka shortly after, adding to tensions.
No Major Damage Reported, But Authorities Urge Vigilance
East Flores Disaster Mitigation chief Alfons Hada Betan confirmed no immediate damage or casualties had been reported. The US Geological Survey (USGS) stated the chance of casualties was low but warned that previous quakes in the region have caused secondary hazards like landslides and tsunamis.
Residents also felt the earthquake shake as far away as Makassar in South Sulawesi, according to social media reports.
Indonesia’s Risky Location on the ‘Ring of Fire’
Indonesia sits on the volatile Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where tectonic plates collide, triggering frequent earthquakes and volcano eruptions. This latest tremor is a stark reminder of the area’s seismic volatility.
