A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Indonesia’s Flores region early August 15, prompting evacuations, damaging homes and infrastructure, and affecting communities across East Nusa Tenggara. As emergency operations continue, Seventh-day Adventist leaders and Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) are gathering information from affected areas to determine immediate needs and possible avenues for response.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake struck at 5:58am local time, with its epicenter about 68 kilometers (42 miles) north-northwest of Ende, East Nusa Tenggara. USGS placed the earthquake at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) measured the earthquake at magnitude 7.7 and said it originated from activity along the Flores Back-Arc Thrust.

The earthquake destroyed homes and buildings across parts of Flores, while residents fled structures and moved away from coastal areas following an initial tsunami warning. Rescue and relief operations continued as authorities worked to reach affected communities.

By August 16, authorities reported at least 53 deaths and more than 130 injuries. More than 1,350 homes sustained damage, while about 5,000 people sought temporary shelter. Landslides, damaged roads, and communication disruptions have complicated efforts to reach some of the hardest-hit communities.

As communities begin dealing with the earthquake’s aftermath, ADRA teams are on the ground assessing conditions and preparing to respond to the needs of those affected.

ADRA said its teams are evaluating the situation as families face uncertainty and begin the difficult process of recovery. The humanitarian organization also called for prayers for those affected by the disaster.

The earthquake struck within the territory of the Nusa Tenggara Mission. According to the latest available statistics, the mission had 98 organized churches and 6,956 members as of June 30, 2025.

The Nusa Tenggara Mission forms part of the Central Indonesia Union Mission, one of three major Adventist administrative territories serving Indonesia under the Southern Asia-Pacific Division.

Church leaders are coordinating with local pastors and congregations to better understand conditions in affected areas. Assessments include the safety and immediate needs of church members as well as conditions facing their neighbors and surrounding communities. Leaders are also gathering information about possible damage to churches and other denominational properties while considering how local congregations can support broader community needs.

According to reports from the local field, Denny Kanadjo, Communication director of the Nusa Tenggara Mission, said church leaders have received no reports of urgent basic needs among affected members at this time. The situation remains under control, and local pastors have reported no immediate difficulties in meeting members’ essential needs.

Church members in Labuan Bajo, Nagekeo, Maumere, and Ruteng were among those affected by the earthquake. While several homes and church properties sustained structural damage, local reports indicate that no fatalities or injuries have been recorded among church members as of the latest assessment.

Reaching some affected families, however, remains challenging. Many members live in remote communities several dozen kilometers from accessible areas. Power outages have also disrupted telecommunications networks, making it difficult for church leaders to receive timely information and complete damage assessments.

“This morning, all pastors whose church members have been affected are visiting the affected areas to verify their safety and assess whether their basic needs are being met,” Kanadjo said.

Local church leaders continue to assess affected communities as access and communication improve. Further information on property damage and possible needs is expected as pastors reach more remote locations.

Indonesia is particularly vulnerable to earthquakes because of its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an extensive zone of seismic and volcanic activity surrounding much of the Pacific Ocean. The movement and interaction of tectonic plates beneath and around the Indonesian archipelago contribute to the country’s frequent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and occasional tsunamis.

The Flores region itself has a history of destructive seismic activity. BMKG said the Flores back-arc region has the potential to produce earthquakes approaching magnitude 7.8 to 7.9. Officials also pointed to the magnitude 7.5 Flores earthquake in 1992, which caused widespread destruction and generated a tsunami.

As assessments continue, ADRA personnel, church leaders, pastors, and local congregations are evaluating needs and determining how they can support families and communities affected by the earthquake. The church continues to encourage prayers for those who lost loved ones, those displaced from their homes, emergency responders, and communities beginning the long process of recovery.

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.