jpnn.com, SIKKA - Tens of thousands of residents from 60 villages on the north coast of Flores, Sikka, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), have started evacuating themselves.
This followed a 7.5-magnitude earthquake and an early warning of a potential tsunami from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).
ALSO SEE: Earthquake Shakes NTT, Triggers Possible Tsunami in 5 Provinces
Residents are evacuating to selected safe points.
According to Sikka Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) head Muhammad Daeng Bakir, the movement of residents was carried out with the assistance of a rapid response team.
ALSO SEE: Pandeglang Regency in Banten Braces for Earthquake, Tsunami
"All officers are focusing on 60 villages in coastal areas," Daeng said.
"Residents will be in a safe point until further notice," he added.
ALSO SEE: Earthquake Victims Use House Repair Funds to Buy Basic Necessities
Daeng hoped that all residents remained alert.
Previously, the BMKG said a potential tsunami could hit the provinces of NTT, Maluku, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), South Sulawesi, and North Sulawesi. (antara/mcr20/jpnn)
This news has been broadcast on JPNN.com with the title: JPNN.com Daerah NTT Puluhan Ribu Warga Sikka Mengungsi Akibat Gempa Berpotensi Tsunami Puluhan Ribu Warga Sikka Mengungsi Akibat Gempa Berpotensi Tsunami