OBI Reaches Earthquake Survivors in Flores 

When a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores on August 15, 2026, thousands of families had to leave their homes and find safer places to stay. As aftershocks continued, many survivors faced each day with fear and uncertainty. In moments like these, your compassion makes a difference. 

Because of your support, OBI was able to quickly work alongside local partners to reach affected families, including those in areas that were difficult to access because of damaged infrastructure. From necessities to psychosocial support, your generosity helped bring practical relief and renewed hope to people trying to begin again. 

The earthquake was centered about 30 kilometers northeast of Mbay, Nagekeo, and caused widespread damage across Flores. By the morning of August 16, 686 aftershocks had been recorded, with magnitudes reaching as high as 6.2 

According to a BNPB report on the evening of August 15, 47 people had died, 101 were injured, 9,290 residents had been displaced, and 1,357 homes had been damaged.  In response, OBI mobilized to reach at least 2,000 survivors during the 14-day emergency response. Relief efforts focused on Nagekeo, Manggarai, East Manggarai, Ngada, Sikka, and Ende, including areas that were difficult to reach because of damaged roads and continued aftershocks. 

Mrs. Yohana, a survivor from Nagekeo-Mbay, remembered the fear her family experienced. “At that time, I was confused because my children were crying. They had never experienced a disaster like this before. We never imagined that we would be in a place like this, facing a situation like this.” 

To help meet the immediate needs of affected families, 500 food packages were prepared. OBI also worked to provide safe drinking water for at least 2,000 people living in evacuation sites and other affected areas. 

But families needed more than physical help. Special attention was also given to the emotional well-being of children. Psychosocial support was planned for 200 children through child-friendly activities featuring Superbook animation. These activities were designed to help ease the fear and anxiety children experienced after the disaster. 

“I feel that some of my anxiety and sadness has begun to ease. Since we have been here, no one had visited us to give us support and encouragement.” 

Throughout the response, OBI coordinated with local governments, BPBD, command posts, search and rescue teams, NGO networks, and local churches. OBI’s team also continued monitoring families after distributions, listening to their feedback and making sure the assistance provided cntinued to meet their needs. 

For Mrs. Yohana, simply knowing that someone had come to stand with them brought new encouragement. 

“With Obor Berkat coming here, we received some strength and encouragement so that we can begin to rise again after this disaster. I want to say thank you so much to Obor Berkat, the team, and the volunteers who came and helped us,” she shared. 

Because of your compassion, families facing disaster do not have to walk through their darkest moments alone. Your support helps bring practical care, encouragement, and hope when they need it most.