Kupang, E Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA) – East Nusa Tenggara Governor Melki Laka Lena has declared a 14-day emergency response after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, as authorities seek to accelerate rescue efforts and restore infrastructure.The emergency status runs from Aug. 15 to Aug. 28, Melki said in a statement issued here Sunday, allowing authorities to streamline access, coordination and communication while mobilizing available resources.The declaration was formalized through East Nusa Tenggara Governor’s Decree No. 305/KEP/HK/2026, issued in Kupang on Aug. 15.The magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores on Aug. 15 at a depth of 15 kilometers, about 30 kilometers northeast of Mbay in Nagekeo District.The disaster caused deaths and injuries, damaged homes and infrastructure, and disrupted daily life and activities across several areas.Under the emergency status, the provincial government will work with local and central authorities, the military and police, agencies, businesses and communities to coordinate the response.“Public safety and meeting the basic needs of affected residents are the top priorities during this emergency response,” Melki said.Available resources will support search and evacuation operations, health services, basic needs, shelters, transportation and infrastructure repairs, as well as other disaster-related response efforts.The provincial government also guaranteed funding for the emergency response under the decree.Costs arising from the emergency declaration will be covered by the provincial budget and other lawful, nonbinding funding sources.The emergency status provides a basis for the government and stakeholders to work together to accelerate the response and minimize the disaster’s impact on residents.The provincial government urged residents to remain calm, help one another and follow official information and instructions from authorities, the disaster agency, BMKG, military, police and search-and-rescue agency Basarnas.