The death toll from a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Indonesia has risen to at least 68 people, with ongoing search efforts for bodies and potential survivors.
The quake exposed approximately 2 million people to “strong” and “violent” shaking, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Hundreds of aftershocks have followed the initial seismic event.
A 14-day state of emergency was issued by the province's governor on Sunday.
President Prabowo Subianto paid tribute to the victims on Monday during a ceremony commemorating the country’s 81st Independence Day, observing a moment of silence in their memory.
A 5.3 magnitude earthquake is considered “moderate,” while a 6.3 magnitude earthquake is considered “strong.” The 7.7 magnitude quake that hit Indonesia is classified as major. This event marks the latest in a series of earthquakes with magnitudes above 7 that have affected countries this summer. Colombia is still recovering from a 7.4 magnitude quake last week, and in June, Venezuela experienced back-to-back quakes measuring 7.5 and 7.7 magnitudes.