A major earthquake struck Indonesia today (August 15, 2026)! A 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the waters near Flores Island in eastern Indonesia. With a shallow epicenter, the quake caused building damage and prompted emergency evacuations, leading Indonesian authorities to issue a tsunami warning.
For those currently in Bali, Lombok, or planning a trip to eastern Indonesia, the biggest concern is likely:
“Will this earthquake affect Bali?”
For now, there’s no need to panic over this quake, but it’s wise to keep an eye on the latest official updates.
7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Flores Island, Indonesia
According to available information, the earthquake struck early on August 15, with its epicenter near Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), about 68 kilometers from Ende, at a depth of roughly 10–15 kilometers.
Because the epicenter was offshore and the quake was a relatively shallow, strong tremor, Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) immediately issued a tsunami warning for several coastal areas.
Multiple aftershocks have occurred since the earthquake.
International media reports indicate that parts of Flores Island have seen damage to buildings, including homes and public facilities. Some hospitals have even moved patients outdoors to prevent further impact on the structures.
Tsunami Warning Was Issued, But Has Now Been Lifted
This was the most nerve-wracking part of today’s event.
Since the epicenter was near the sea, authorities issued a tsunami warning after the earthquake and urged some coastal residents to evacuate inland or to higher ground.
In some areas, the sea even receded, prompting residents to flee to higher elevations.
However, the latest updates show that the tsunami warning has been lifted.
BMKG monitoring data indicates that sea level changes were observed in some areas, but there is no ongoing major tsunami threat.
So, if you see a headline saying ‘Indonesia issues tsunami warning,’ don’t jump to the conclusion that ‘Bali is experiencing a tsunami right now.’
The two are completely different concepts.
https://www.instagram.com/reels/DcC0-b6RH5j/
▲ Local port buildings were destroyed by the earthquake
Has Bali been affected?
This is the question on everyone’s mind.
Currently, the main area impacted by this earthquake is the Flores Island and East Nusa Tenggara region, not Bali.
So far, strong tremors have been reported mainly in Flores Island, Lombok Island, and the Nusa Tenggara area.
Even in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, residents felt noticeable shaking. According to ANTARA, some residents in Mataram, Lombok, rushed outdoors after the earthquake.
But this is a different matter from ‘a major earthquake hitting Bali.’
As of now, there is no reliable information indicating that Bali has suffered significant damage from this 7.7-magnitude earthquake, nor is there any current information suggesting that Bali is under a direct tsunami threat.
So if you’re currently in Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, Ubud, Nusa Dua, or Uluwatu, there’s no need to cancel your Bali trip immediately because of this news.
However, Indonesia lies on the highly seismically active ‘Ring of Fire,’ so travelers should still develop basic earthquake preparedness habits.
Why is this earthquake particularly noteworthy?
In fact, Flores has experienced major earthquakes and tsunamis before.
BMKG historical data shows that the Flores and East Nusa Tenggara region has previously experienced earthquakes that triggered tsunamis.
The most famous is the December 12, 1992 Flores earthquake and tsunami, which had a magnitude of about 7.8 and caused severe devastation.
So when this 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck, authorities quickly issued a tsunami warning and urged coastal residents to evacuate—an essential disaster prevention measure.
In other words:
Issuing a warning doesn’t mean a major tsunami will definitely occur; it’s about moving residents to safety first when earthquake conditions pose a potential risk.
This is an important mindset for travelers when encountering news about earthquakes in Indonesia.
What to Do If You Experience an Earthquake in Bali
Although this event currently poses no significant threat to Bali, if you’re traveling on the island and an earthquake strikes, remember the simplest principle:
Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
When an earthquake hits, don’t rush for the elevator or stand near large glass windows.
If you’re in your hotel room, take cover under a sturdy table, protect your head and neck, and wait for the main shaking to stop before evacuating as directed by hotel staff.
If you’re at the beach and experience a very strong or prolonged earthquake, don’t just stand there waiting for a phone alert—even if you haven’t received one yet.
Move away from the coast toward higher ground or inland, and wait for official updates from BMKG or other authorities.
▲ Tourists visiting Padar Island at the time of the earthquake
Bali Strengthens Disaster Preparedness with Upgraded Tsunami Early Warning System
Can tourists still visit Bali right now?
Based on current information, it is safe to travel to Bali, but it’s advisable to stay updated.
The main impact of this earthquake is concentrated in Flores and East Nusa Tenggara, and Bali is not currently a primary disaster area.
However, since aftershocks may continue to occur, travelers heading to other Indonesian islands—especially those planning to visit Flores, Komodo, Lombok, and Sumbawa—should closely monitor transportation, ports, and the latest announcements from local authorities.
If your itinerary is simply:
Bali → Seminyak → Ubud → Nusa Dua → Uluwatu
There is currently no reason to cancel your trip solely because of this earthquake.
But if your itinerary includes:
Bali → Lombok → Sumbawa → Flores / Komodo
Then it is recommended to double-check ferry schedules, flights, and local disaster information before departing.
Most Important: Don’t Be Alarmed by Headlines About ‘Indonesia’s 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake + Tsunami’
Today’s earthquake is indeed a very serious event, with reports already emerging of damaged buildings, evacuations, and casualties. The situation may continue to evolve.
However, a ‘7.7 magnitude earthquake in Flores’ does not equate to ‘Bali is in danger right now.’
If you’re in Bali, stay calm; if you’re planning to travel to eastern Indonesia, pay closer attention to official updates.
Earthquake news changes rapidly—especially the magnitude, casualty numbers, and tsunami warning status, which may be updated as authorities investigate.
The most important thing for travelers is not to panic, but to:
Check official sources, avoid disaster zones, and don’t share unverified information.
The most reliable official source to follow right now is Indonesia’s BMKG and its tsunami early warning system. BMKG also reminds the public to get the latest earthquake and tsunami updates only from official channels.
No discussions yet — be the first to ask.