Indonesia: At least 82 killed on Lombok by earthquake August 6 /update 4

Event

The official death toll from the earthquake that hit the island of Lombok on Sunday, August 5, has risen to at least 82 as of 07:00 (local time) on Monday, August 6. According to media reports, most of the victims who were killed died in the northern region of the island. Thousands of other people have been injured and material damages have been reported across Lombok. Much of the damage reportedly impacted the city of Mataram. Aftershocks are possible in the area in the coming hours and days. Continued transportation disruptions are anticipated throughout Lombok as recovery efforts continue.

Context

The earthquake was originally registered as a magnitude-7 but had been downgraded to a magnitude-6.9 by the US Geological Survey (USGS). It struck off the northern coast of Lombok at 19:46 on August 5. A tsunami warning was issued for affected areas but was lifted later in the evening of August 5.

Indonesia lies within the active seismic zone known as "the Pacific Ring of Fire." On July 29, a 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck southwest of Lelongken, resulting in at least 14 deaths.

Advice

Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to monitor the situation, be prepared for further aftershocks, and heed all instructions issued by local authorities.  

During an earthquake, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows and exterior walls, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from any tall structures, such as buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.