Kathmandu— A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia Saturday morning at approximately 6:00 AM local time, triggering a localized tsunami and causing significant damage to structures across several regions. Preliminary reports indicate at least five people have been killed as a result of the quake and subsequent waves. The epicenter was located roughly 30 kilometers northeast of Mbay in eastern Indonesia, according to the country’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). Following the initial tremor, multiple aftershocks were recorded, compounding concerns for affected communities.

Earthquake Details and Tsunami Warnings

The earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.7, according to both the BMKG and the US Geological Survey (USGS). The USGS reported three subsequent aftershocks measuring 5.6, 6.1, and 5.0 in magnitude. The BMKG confirmed that tsunami waves reaching up to 0.94 meters were observed in several coastal areas following the initial quake, prompting immediate warnings for residents to evacuate.

Damage Reports and Casualties

Initial reports indicate widespread damage to buildings across eastern Indonesia. Videos circulating on social media appear to show building facades crumbling and structures collapsing entirely as people fled in panic. Melki Laka Lena, governor of the southeastern province of East Nusa Tenggara, confirmed that at least five deaths have been reported.

Indonesia’s Seismic Activity

Indonesia is situated within one of the world’s most seismically active zones, the Pacific Ring of Fire, due to its location where multiple major tectonic plates converge. This makes it particularly vulnerable to earthquakes and tsunamis. The country experienced a devastating 9.1 magnitude earthquake in 2004 that triggered a widespread tsunami, resulting in over 220,000 fatalities across the broader region. More recently, a 6.9 magnitude quake struck Lombok in 2018, claiming hundreds of lives.

Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage and casualties following Saturday’s earthquake and tsunami. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.