Jakarta: A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Indonesia's western Sumatra island late on Saturday, the US Geological Survey reported. This quake came after a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake had already hit the country's eastern Flores island earlier the same day, resulting in at least 47 deaths and leaving several others trapped beneath collapsed structures.

According to France24.com, rescuers were actively searching through debris for survivors following the earthquake off Indonesia's eastern Flores island, which claimed at least 47 lives, as confirmed by disaster officials. The national disaster management agency (BNPB) updated the death toll from 40, and rescue official Fathur Rahman mentioned that 50 individuals were injured in the 7.7-magnitude quake.

BNPB leader Suharyanto stated that people were trapped in multiple buildings. "These will be the initial targets of the disaster response teams," Suharyanto said. The quake damaged nearly 160 houses, numerous educational and health facilities, and other public buildings on the popular tourist island in Indonesia's east, the BNPB reported.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies indicated that preparations were underway to assist approximately 2,000 individuals in temporary shelters. Additionally, the government dispatched 50,000 aid packages weighing a total of 275 tonnes to the affected area, while European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen offered assistance through the bloc's Copernicus Earth observation satellites, expressing solidarity with Indonesia.

Residents in the region, such as Yulian Juita Ekalia from Ruteng city, recounted their experiences during the quake. Ekalia described the sensation as being on a trampoline and shared her fear as she rushed outside amidst falling household items. Her account highlights the widespread impact and fear induced by the powerful tremors.