We woke up on Sunday to tragic news of the earthquake that has struck the beautiful island of Lombok, Indonesia ? Located just east of Bali, Lombok is a popular tourist destination for its pristine beaches and hiking trails. If you or anyone you know are currently in the vicinity or are planning to visit soon, here's what you need to know:
1. What are the damages?
Credit: @earthquakestime on Instagram
The 6.4 magnitude quake that struck early Sunday morning in north Lombok was also followed by more than 200 smaller earthquakes in the nearby areas. It has also caused landslides at the nearby Mount Rinjani National Park which has now been closed to trekkers. ? But Alhamdulillah, there’s been no warning of a tsunami as the earthquake happened inland but travellers are advised to take cautionary steps.
Credit: @earthquakestime on Instagram
Sadly, it has also costed at least 16 lives including a Malaysian hiker, left hundreds injured and thousands of village homes damaged. ? So far, Lombok city and neighbouring Bali is not affected by the earthquake.
2. What are the ongoing efforts?
Credit: @dezabedrosky on Instagram
Evacuation efforts are still ongoing at Mount Rinjani where about 820 hikers were left stranded.
Credit: @pkpuhi_aceh on Instagram
Government agencies as well as uniformed services and non-governmental organisations are working together to send water, food and medical supplies and shelter aid to the affected areas.
3. Where to get updates?
Currently, flights departing and arriving in Lombok are on schedule. But it's always better to be safe than sorry! So look out for updates from news media and local sites to ensure your safe visit to Lombok:
- Check for natural disaster warnings at Indonesia's Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency website
- Check live flight delays and cancelations update at Lombok's Airport Guide online
- Check official news media in English and Bahasa Indonesia
- Find emergency contact numbers here
- Set Google Alerts for news update
Please stay alert and take cautionary steps. Safe travels! ??