Safety
84-Year-Old Paralyzed Woman Survives Three Days Under Rubble Following Indonesia Earthquake
An elderly woman was rescued after being trapped for three days under the debris of her home following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Indonesia.
According to a report by Khaosod Online citing Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), an 84-year-old paralyzed woman named Paulina Pobi was rescued alive after being trapped for three days under the ruins of her home. The incident occurred following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara province, on August 15, 2026.
Ms. Pobi’s home, located on a small island north of Flores, was among hundreds destroyed during the seismic event. Her family initially believed she had been evacuated to a shelter, but returned to search for her on August 18 after failing to locate her. Local official Rudolfus Riba stated that because Ms. Pobi is paralyzed, she was unable to move or call for help. Remarkably, she was found without injuries, suffering only from exhaustion due to dehydration and lack of food.
For travelers and residents in the region, this event highlights the ongoing risks associated with seismic activity in Indonesia, where the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported numerous aftershocks since the initial quake. The disaster has resulted in at least 73 confirmed deaths, over 900 injuries, and the displacement of nearly 60,000 people. While rescue efforts continue, the full extent of the damage and the total number of missing persons remain to be confirmed as authorities manage the aftermath.