Indonesia Marks Independence Day Amid Earthquake Recovery
Indonesia marks 81st Independence Day while rescuers continue searching for victims of Saturday's magnitude-7.7 earthquake in Flores.
Indonesia is observing its 81st Independence Day on Monday, with a flag-hoisting ceremony scheduled at the presidential palace in Jakarta. The national commemoration comes as the country grapples with the aftermath of a powerful earthquake that struck eastern Indonesia on Saturday.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported the magnitude-7.7 quake hit the Flores region at a depth of 6 miles. At least 51 people have been killed, and thousands have been displaced. More than 235 aftershocks have followed the initial tremor.
Rescue teams spent Sunday digging through debris, focusing on three regencies that remained inaccessible after the quake. Officials say over 900 homes were destroyed, forcing approximately 5,000 people into temporary shelters. Relief workers are distributing aid, though restoring electricity and communications remains a challenge.
In Reo, Manggarai Regency, residents gathered for midday prayers in front of a mosque severely damaged by the earthquake. The scene underscores the dual nature of the day — a celebration of national independence alongside ongoing recovery efforts in disaster-affected communities.