Jakarta, ThedailyID — Thousands of residents remain displaced after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, on Saturday, Aug. 15.
The death toll has since risen to at least 68, with more than 200 people injured and over 19,000 residents displaced, according to the latest reports. More than 4,500 homes have also been damaged across affected areas.
The earthquake triggered widespread damage and continued aftershocks. More than 2,100 aftershocks have been recorded, adding to fears among residents who remain in temporary shelters.
Access to several areas has also been difficult because of landslides, damaged roads and disrupted infrastructure. Rescue teams have been working to reopen routes and reach communities that were previously isolated.
For survivors, basic necessities remain an urgent concern. “What we need are food, drinks, medicine, and diapers for children,” Umri, a resident of Nangahale Village in North Flores, told AFP.
The Indonesian government has sent 27 tons of relief supplies to affected areas using Hercules aircraft. The supplies include essential items intended to support residents affected by the disaster.
East Nusa Tenggara Governor Melki Laka Lena has declared a 14-day emergency response from Aug. 15 to Aug. 28. The measure is intended to accelerate rescue operations, coordination and the mobilization of resources.
With aftershocks continuing and thousands still away from their homes, access to food, water, medicine and temporary shelter remains a key priority as recovery efforts continue.
