Earthquake in Indonesia: Death Toll Reaches 100 Ten Days After the Disaster

Monday 24 August 2026 - 10:20

Ten days after the powerful earthquake that struck eastern Indonesia, the death toll continues to rise. Authorities announced on Monday that 100 people have died, while rescue operations are ongoing in a region where tens of thousands of homes have been damaged.

A Rising Death Toll After the Earthquake

The earthquake on August 15 has now resulted in 100 deaths, according to Suharyanto, head of the Indonesian disaster management agency.

The toll has increased as several hospitalized individuals have succumbed to their injuries. More than 1,600 people have also been injured, according to authorities.

The earthquake, measuring 7.7 in magnitude, struck the province of East Nusa Tenggara in the eastern archipelago. It was followed by thousands of aftershocks, complicating rescue operations and the care for affected populations.

Tens of Thousands of Homes Damaged

The extent of material damage reflects the severity of the earthquake. More than 73,000 homes have been damaged, and approximately 180,000 people have had to be evacuated.

In several sectors, essential infrastructure has also been affected. Health facilities have suffered damage, forcing medical teams to set up temporary structures to continue caring for patients.

The return to normalcy is expected to be long for the displaced populations.

Aid Delivered by All Available Means

On the tenth day following the disaster, rescue operations remain particularly critical. Authorities are distributing aid in affected areas using helicopters, trucks, and motorcycles.

This diversity of means allows access to areas where roads are damaged or difficult to navigate.

Rescue teams must also address the needs of a considerable population that has left their homes while continuing medical operations for the injured.

The Deadliest Earthquake Since 2022

With 100 victims, this disaster becomes the deadliest earthquake recorded in Indonesia since 2022.

That year, a 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck western Java, resulting in several hundred deaths. The toll of the current disaster once again highlights the archipelago's significant vulnerability to seismic risks.

Indonesia at the Heart of the Ring of Fire

Indonesia has approximately 290 million inhabitants and is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a vast area characterized by intense tectonic activity.

The interaction of several geological plates regularly causes earthquakes, while volcanic activity is also particularly significant.

In this context, the earthquake of August 15 fits into a geological reality well known to Indonesian authorities. However, its magnitude and the damage caused in East Nusa Tenggara now place rescue efforts in a prolonged emergency operation.

Ten days after the main shock, the stakes are now twofold: to continue caring for the victims while providing sustainable aid to the tens of thousands of people deprived of housing or forced to live far from their homes.