Magnitude 7.7 earthquake near Flores Island kills at least two

Coastal communities around Flores Island were instructed on Tuesday to relocate inland or to higher ground after a magnitude‑6.2 earthquake struck the region at 03:14 UTC. The tremor, centered approximately 15 kilometres off the island’s western shoreline, was felt across several neighboring provinces and triggered a brief tsunami advisory that was later lifted after monitoring showed no significant wave activity. Local authorities reported minor structural damage to homes and fishing facilities along the coast, while emergency services dispatched teams to assess potential landslides and flooding in low‑lying areas.

The government’s disaster response agency emphasized that the precautionary evacuation is aimed at preventing casualties should aftershocks or secondary hazards arise. Residents were urged to remain in designated shelters until official updates confirm that conditions are safe for return. Officials continue to monitor seismic activity and have pledged to provide ongoing support to affected families, while urging the public to stay informed through official channels.