A strong earthquake struck near Indonesia’s Flores region early Saturday, shaking the ground at about 5:58 a.m. local time. The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.7 and quickly caused a tsunami warning. Many people ran to higher ground, and at least 38 people died. The city of Maumere and nearby villages suffered severe damage to homes and buildings.

The earthquake happened because Indonesia is on the "Pacific Ring of Fire," where the earth often shakes. This area often has earthquakes because several large pieces of the earth’s surface, called tectonic plates, meet here.

After the earthquake, local hospitals treated many injured people. Rescue teams are still searching for missing villagers in the damaged areas. The government is sending food, water, and medical help to about 2,000 people who left their homes and are staying outside.