A powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off Indonesia's Flores island overnight, killing at least two people and causing buildings to topple across the region.

The seismic event prompted widespread panic, with residents fleeing their homes as the ground shook violently. Initial reports indicate significant structural damage in coastal areas.

The United States Geological Survey recorded the shallow quake's epicentre off the coast of Flores, an island in the Lesser Sunda Islands archipelago. Its powerful tremors were felt across a wide area of eastern Indonesia.

Panic spread swiftly as the ground shook violently, sending residents into the streets.

Local authorities are currently assessing the full extent of the damage and coordinating emergency responses. Communication lines in some affected areas remain challenged, making a comprehensive damage report difficult in the immediate aftermath.

Buildings Toppled Amidst Widespread Panic

The earthquake’s intensity caused numerous buildings and homes to collapse or suffer severe structural compromise. Residents described a terrifying experience, with many running for safety outdoors as the tremors continued.

Indonesia sits on the seismically active "Ring of Fire," a horseshoe-shaped belt around the Pacific Ocean known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. This geographical position makes the nation particularly vulnerable to such natural disasters.

Indonesia Flores earthquake damage rubble

The country has a long history of devastating quakes, often followed by tsunamis, due to the collision of major tectonic plates beneath its islands. These events frequently lead to significant loss of life and extensive destruction.

A Region Prone to Deadly Quakes

The recent event underscores the persistent threat faced by communities in Indonesia's eastern provinces. Emergency services and disaster relief agencies are mobilising resources to provide aid and support to those affected.

While the immediate focus is on search and rescue operations and providing medical assistance, the long-term recovery for the affected communities on Flores and surrounding islands is expected to be challenging.