Indonesia earthquake leads to thousands evacuated, at least 51 killed, roads blocked

A magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck eastern Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province on Saturday morning, leading to the evacuation of approximately 5,000 people and at least 51 fatalities. The quake, followed by 341 aftershocks, also caused landslides, blocked roads, and damaged over 1,300 homes. Thirty-six people sustained serious injuries, and 77 had minor injuries. Many residents, particularly in the Sikka region, slept outdoors due to fear, with the deputy regent of Sikka stating, "Almost all of Sikka's residents didn't dare stay indoors, so they slept on a porch or a tent outside." Over 3,500 military and police personnel have been deployed for rescue efforts, and the provincial government is considering declaring an emergency.