Indonesia Suffers Devastating 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake

A devastating earthquake struck Indonesia on Saturday, August 15th, claiming at least 68 lives and injuring hundreds. The 7.7-magnitude quake hit off the coast of Flores island, approximately 42 miles northwest of the coastal town of Ende. According to USGS, roughly 2 million people were exposed to 'strong' and 'violent' shaking.

The Indonesian National Disaster Management Agency reported that over 4,500 homes, 122 health facilities, 252 schools, and 84 places of worship were damaged in the earthquake. Thousands have been displaced due to infrastructure damage, with many sleeping under tarp tents in need of food and medical attention.

President Prabowo Subianto paid tribute to the victims on Monday during a ceremony for Indonesia's Independence Day, holding a moment of silence in their memory. Several organizations are currently soliciting donations to support relief efforts, including UNICEF, World Central Kitchen, Global Giving, and World Vision.