Death Toll from NTT Earthquake Rises to 51

The death toll from the magnitude 7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) yesterday has risen to 51 people, according to data released on Sunday morning (16/8).

“As of 09.00 this morning, the total number of fatalities stands at 51,” said National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) Chief Air Marshal M Syafii during a press conference on Sunday.

He said the victims were found in different locations. The search process is ongoing.

“Sixty-four residents are seriously injured,” he added.

Previously, the SAR team had released data showing 48 fatalities from the NTT earthquake.

Based on preliminary verified data as of 08.30 WITA, 112 people have been affected, comprising 48 fatalities and 64 people suffering from serious or minor injuries. These figures remain dynamic and are being continuously updated together with the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) and local SAR elements.

The Joint SAR Team has also urged the public to remain calm and alert to the potential for aftershocks, to follow the instructions of officers in the field, and to obtain information from official sources.

Entering the second day of search and rescue operations following the NTT earthquake, the Joint SAR Team continues to expand its sweep coverage to affected areas. The search is focused on two main areas: Mbay City and the Reo area in Manggarai Regency.

Head of the Maumere SAR Office and SAR mission coordinator, Fathur Rahman, stated that the land route to the Reo area, which had previously been blocked by landslides, has now been opened by rescue teams from the West Manggarai SAR Post.

“The West Manggarai SAR Post rescue team operating in East Manggarai has, as of 06.00 WITA, successfully accessed the land route in the Reo area that was previously affected by landslides. With this access now open, the search can be expanded to reach areas requiring assistance,” Fathur said in an official statement on Sunday.