A powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake has struck off eastern Indonesia, near the island of Flores. The quake was recorded at 5:58am local time, with the epicentre about 68 kilometres from Ende in East Nusa Tenggara. There are currently no immediate reports of casualties or major damage.
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake has struck off eastern Indonesia, according to the United States Geological Survey.
The earthquake occurred at 5:58am local time and was centred offshore near Flores Island, in East Nusa Tenggara province.
The epicentre was located about 68 kilometres from the city of Ende and at a relatively shallow depth.
No immediate reports of casualties
There were no immediate confirmed reports of deaths, injuries or significant damage in the first moments after the earthquake.
Authorities are assessing the situation in communities closest to the epicentre.
Given the strength and shallow depth of the quake, further updates are expected as local emergency services and geological agencies gather more information.
Indonesia sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire
Indonesia is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries because of its position on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
The vast archipelago lies along several major tectonic plate boundaries and regularly experiences earthquakes and volcanic activity.
Strong offshore earthquakes can also raise concerns about possible tsunami activity, depending on the location, depth and movement of the seabed.
Monitoring continues
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely.
People in coastal areas are being urged to follow official emergency advice and local warnings as more information becomes available.
Updates to follow.
