Flores Earthquake: PBV Joins Local Partner in Emergency Relief Efforts
On August 15, 2026, a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Indonesia. The epicenter was located approximately 68 kilometers north-northwest of Ende, near Nagekeo Regency, at a depth of around 10–15 kilometers.
The earthquake caused strong shaking across several districts, including Sikka, Manggarai, East Manggarai, Ende, Alor, and Lembata. A tsunami warning was issued following the earthquake and later lifted, although waves of around 1.6 meters were recorded in Riung.
The disaster has brought back memories of the devastating 1992 Flores earthquake and tsunami, which claimed approximately 2,500 lives.
According to preliminary figures from Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), as of August 17, 56 people had died, 277 were injured, and approximately 11,675 people had been displaced.
At least 4,674 houses have been damaged, including 2,806 severely damaged, 727 moderately damaged, and 1,141 lightly damaged homes. More than 100 public facilities, including schools, healthcare facilities, and places of worship, have also been affected.
The earthquake has caused significant disruption to transportation and essential services. Landslides have blocked several roads, including sections of the Ende–Nagekeo route, making it difficult for emergency teams to reach some communities. Power outages and damage to communication infrastructure have also affected residents.
More than 235 aftershocks have been recorded, creating continued concern among residents, particularly those whose homes have been damaged. Many people have chosen to remain outdoors or in temporary shelters because they are afraid to return to their homes.
In response to the situation, Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV) is joining its Indonesian partner, ASAR Humanity, to support affected communities.
ASAR Humanity has already established humanitarian relief posts and begun distributing initial assistance, including ready-to-eat meals and drinking water. PBV will also dispatch two staff members to the affected area to support the ongoing assessment and emergency response.
Based on the needs identified so far, priority areas for assistance include food, clean water and hygiene, emergency shelter, medical care, and psychosocial support.
The need for basic supplies is particularly urgent for displaced families who are unable to safely return home. Communities also require temporary shelter, household supplies, and access to clean water and sanitation while damaged infrastructure is being restored.
The scale of the damage is still being assessed, particularly in remote and mountainous communities where landslides and damaged roads have made access difficult.
The earthquake has also created additional risks for communities already vulnerable to flooding, landslides, and other natural hazards. As emergency response continues, support will be needed not only to meet immediate needs, but also to help families begin rebuilding their lives safely and with dignity.
PBV and ASAR Humanity will continue working together to understand the changing needs on the ground and provide assistance where it is most urgently needed.
Please support PBV’s emergency relief efforts for communities affected by the Flores earthquake.
Your support will help provide essential assistance such as food, clean water, emergency supplies, and other support to people facing the difficult aftermath of the disaster.
