HARIAN EXPRESS, JAKARTA – The government confirms over 5,000 aftershocks hit Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) as of Saturday morning following a massive M7.7 earthquake, (22/8/2026).
The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) reported a staggering total of 5,012 aftershocks up to Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 05:00 Western Indonesia Time (WIB).
The continuous seismic activity creates widespread anxiety among local residents, as the ground refuses to settle completely after the massive initial tremor.
Government officials actively monitor the ongoing situation to provide accurate and timely updates to the public. They urge everyone to remain alert during this critical period.
From the thousands of registered aftershocks, the agency noted varying magnitudes. The most powerful aftershock reached a magnitude of M6.2, while the weakest tremor stood at M1.1.
Furthermore, the agency identified 31 specific aftershocks possessing a magnitude greater than M5. The local community directly felt at least 124 of these tremors, prompting many individuals to remain outside their homes for safety. Families set up makeshift tents in open fields to avoid potential falling debris from weakened structures.
The Director of Earthquake and Tsunami at the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG), Wijayanto, addressed the media regarding the persistent seismic events. He offered reassurance to the affected communities regarding the scale of the ongoing tremors.
“We can ensure that the current aftershocks have smaller magnitudes compared to the main earthquake of M7.7,” Wijayanto stated.
He emphasized the importance of remaining calm and relying strictly on verified information from official government channels rather than trusting unverified rumors circulating on social media.
Geological experts explain that such a high frequency of aftershocks commonly follows a major tectonic event of this magnitude. The earth’s crust requires significant time to release the accumulated stress and return to a stable state.
Consequently, residents of Flores and the surrounding areas in East Nusa Tenggara must maintain a high level of vigilance. Local disaster mitigation teams actively urge citizens to prepare emergency supply kits and identify safe evacuation routes in their respective neighborhoods.
They also distribute educational materials on earthquake preparedness to help communities respond effectively to sudden tremors.
Authorities actively conduct structural assessments on critical infrastructure throughout the region. Engineers evaluate bridges, roads, and public buildings to ensure they withstand the ongoing tremors without collapsing.
Medical personnel and emergency responders stand by on high alert, ready to deploy immediately to any area reporting significant damage or casualties.
The government continuously coordinates relief efforts, aiming to distribute essential supplies such as food, clean water, and medical aid to the thousands of displaced individuals currently residing in temporary shelters.
Search and rescue teams continuously patrol the affected districts to assist vulnerable populations, including the elderly and young children.
Volunteers from various non-governmental organizations also join the relief operations, bringing additional resources and manpower to the hardest-hit zones.
Mobile clinics traverse the accessible roads to provide immediate health check-ups and trauma counseling for those experiencing acute stress from the relentless shaking.
Through these unified actions, the entire country demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting East Nusa Tenggara during this massive crisis.
The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) commits to providing round-the-clock surveillance of the tectonic plate movements in the region.
The agency regularly updates its digital platforms and broadcasts warnings through local radio stations to reach remote communities. Officials strongly advise all residents to avoid damaged structures and coastal areas until authorities declare the situation completely safe.
The nation stands in solidarity with the people of Flores as they navigate this challenging natural disaster and begin the arduous process of recovery and rebuilding.
