A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck off the coast of Indonesia, sending tremors through coastal communities and causing widespread destruction. At least 47 people have been confirmed dead, while rescuers fear the toll may rise as more bodies are recovered from the rubble.
The quake, which occurred offshore, toppled buildings in several towns and villages, trapping residents under debris. Emergency teams, including military personnel and disaster response units, have been deployed to the hardest-hit areas to conduct search-and-rescue operations.
The violent shaking triggered panic, with many residents rushing out of homes and buildings. In coastal areas, authorities issued a tsunami alert, though no significant waves have been reported so far. People were seen moving to higher ground as a precaution.
Damage assessments are ongoing, but disrupted communication lines are hampering efforts to reach some isolated settlements. Hospitals are stretched, treating the injured while local officials work to restore basic services.
Aftershocks remain a concern, and authorities have advised residents to stay alert. The full scale of the disaster is not yet known, but the initial reports suggest a significant humanitarian impact that will require sustained relief efforts in the coming days.