Canada updates Indonesia travel advisory after deadly earthquakes

The Government of Canada has updated its travel advisory for Indonesia, urging Canadians to exercise extra caution after two deadly earthquakes on Aug. 14.

The advisory says a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Pematangsiantar in North Sumatra after a magnitude 7.7 quake near Flores Island, off northern East Nusa Tenggara. It says the earthquakes caused casualties and significant infrastructure damage.

Reuters reported at least 47 deaths. Landslides blocked roads and hindered rescue efforts in Nagekeo, while 20 people were found dead in Maumere; six people were injured and two were trapped beneath rubble. The epicentre was in Ende, east of Bali, and tsunami waves of less than three feet were recorded in several areas.

Authorities are assessing damage to homes, warehouses and government buildings. Transportation, power, water and food supplies, telecommunications, emergency services and medical access have been disrupted in some areas. Canada advises people already in affected areas to follow local directions, including evacuation orders, monitor local media and avoid damaged structures until officials say they are safe.