Indonesia Hit by Devastating 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Causing Widespread Destruction

A devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake has struck Indonesia, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

Widespread Destruction

The quake hit the island of Flores shortly before 05:00 local time, causing widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure.

At least five people have died as a result of the earthquake, according to the provincial governor of East Nusa Tenggara Province.

Search and rescue teams are working to free anyone trapped in damaged buildings, while dozens of aftershocks have been reported in the area.

The quake was felt over 600 miles away from Bali, with strong aftershocks including one with a magnitude of 6.1.

A tsunami warning was issued but lifted around three hours after the initial jolt, as authorities advised people to remain calm and stay away from coastal areas.

Video footage shows large chunks of concrete breaking off buildings onto passengers waiting to board an inter-island ferry, while some were thrown into the sea when the gangway collapsed.

A stream of people could be seen moving inland on motorbikes after authorities issued a tsunami warning, but it will take time to assess the full extent of the destruction in the region.

The country's national disaster mitigation agency, BNPB, advised residents to avoid entering buildings that have already sustained cracks or structural damage.