Death toll from NTT earthquake rises to 71

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that the death toll from the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) has increased. The total now stands at 71 people.

“The number of victims has increased by one to 71 (deaths), namely in Nagekeo Regency,” said Berton Suar Pelita Panjaitan, Acting Head of the BNPB Data, Information and Disaster Communication Centre, during a press conference on Wednesday, 19 August 2026.

“The current total number of displaced people according to our records is 59,647, with the largest number in Manggarai at 20,433 people,” he continued.

Berton said the BNPB extended its condolences over the deaths of the NTT earthquake victims.

“We, the entire government and ministries/agencies, express our deepest condolences on the passing of our family members who are currently in evacuation sites and affected areas in NTT,” he said.

It was previously reported that President Prabowo Subianto, as inspector of the Proclamation Seconds Ceremony, invited all elements of the nation to pray for residents affected by the earthquake disasters in Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).

This was conveyed by the Head of State while leading a moment of silence at the 81st Independence Day ceremony on Monday, 17 August 2026.

“Ladies and gentlemen, let us observe a moment of silence to remember the services of the nation’s independence heroes, who sacrificed their lives and bodies for the independence and honour of the Indonesian nation. As well as to pray for our brothers and sisters affected by natural disasters in Sumatra, NTT and other regions of Indonesia. Moment of silence begins,” said Prabowo.

The atmosphere during the moment of silence was solemn. Officials, invited guests and other ceremony participants bowed their heads.