2,119 Aftershocks Hit NTT, Check BMKG's Latest Warning!
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that seismic activity in the Flores region remains very high following the M 7.7 main earthquake on Saturday (15/8/2026). As of Tuesday (18/8/2026) at 05.00 WIB, BMKG has recorded a total of 2,119 aftershocks.
The strength of these aftershocks varies from M 1.3 to M 6.2. Of the thousands of tremors, 24 events were significant aftershocks with magnitudes above M 5.0. Additionally, 70 events were aftershocks whose shaking could be felt directly by residents.
M 7.7 Main Earthquake Triggered Tsunami in 4 Provinces
BMKG Director of Earthquakes and Tsunamis, Wijayanto, explained that the shallow earthquake that triggered thousands of aftershocks was caused by tectonic activity in the Flores Back-Arc with a thrust fault mechanism.
The M 7.7 main shock, which occurred on Saturday at 04.58 WIB, triggered tsunami waves at 16 locations across four provinces: East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), South Sulawesi, and Southeast Sulawesi.
The highest tsunami wave was detected in Pota, East Manggarai, NTT at 05.03 WIB, measuring 1.605 metres, while the lowest was in Bakalang, Alor, NTT at 0.14 metres. The Tsunami Early Warning status ended at 07.30 WIB.
Update on Casualties and Building Damage
The combined impact of the main earthquake, the series of aftershocks, and the tsunami waves affected the areas of West Manggarai, Manggarai, East Manggarai, as well as Sikka and Maumere.
Preliminary reports on the disaster impact, as stated in a press release on BMKG’s official website, are as follows:
Fatalities: 53 people
Injuries: 137 people
Infrastructure Damage: Building damage varies from light to severe categories.
BMKG Advisory for Facing Aftershocks
BMKG has urged residents in affected areas to remain alert to the potential dangers of ongoing aftershocks:
Avoid Vulnerable Buildings: Do not enter or approach buildings that are cracked or damaged from previous tremors.
Remain Calm and Alert: Follow evacuation instructions and avoid unverifiable hoaxes.
Monitor Official Channels: Regular information updates can be accessed through the InfoBMKG application, bmkg.go.id, and verified social media accounts @infoBMKG.