Sri Lanka has conveyed its support to Indonesia after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off Flores Island, leaving at least 51 dead and thousands displaced. Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath commended rescue efforts and expressed the country's commitment to stand with Indonesia during the crisis.
A powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Flores Island in Indonesia, triggering a humanitarian emergency that has claimed at least 51 lives. The seismic event, which occurred at a depth of approximately 10 kilometres, was succeeded by over 235 aftershocks, compounding the scale of the disaster. Authorities also issued a temporary tsunami warning in the immediate aftermath, though this was subsequently lifted.
The earthquake's impact has been particularly severe in three regencies: Manggarai, East Manggarai, and Nagekeo. Rescue operations face considerable challenges due to damaged infrastructure, blocked roads, and disrupted communication networks. More than 100 individuals have been injured, while approximately 5,000 people are currently sheltering in temporary facilities. Relief teams are actively working to deliver essential supplies and restore critical services including electricity and communications.
Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath conveyed the nation's condolences to the Indonesian government and affected citizens. In a statement, Herath extended sympathies to bereaved families, wished recovery for the injured, and expressed concern for those still unaccounted for. He acknowledged the dedication of Indonesian rescue teams, humanitarian workers, and other personnel involved in ongoing search and relief operations. Herath reaffirmed that Sri Lanka stands alongside Indonesia during this challenging period.
