Earthquake in Indonesia: Communication Networks Disrupted

A strong earthquake (magnitude 7.7) struck the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) region of Indonesia early this morning. Initial reports indicate damage to buildings and disruptions to standard communication infrastructure in several affected areas.

To support the emergency and disaster response communications currently underway, amateur radio operators in Indonesia and throughout the region are respectfully asked to keep the following frequencies clear and to avoid causing interference with emergency traffic:

The 7.110 MHz frequency is being used for HF emergency communications, while the 145.100 MHz frequency is being used for local VHF coordination in the affected areas.

All amateur radio operators are requested to give absolute priority to emergency and disaster relief communications on these frequencies and to listen only without transmitting, unless specifically asked to assist.

The IARU Region 3 Disaster Communications Committee, in collaboration with the relevant emergency communications coordinators and IARU Region 3 officials, remains on alert and is providing the necessary coordination to respond to any requests for assistance with amateur radio emergency communications.

We appreciate the cooperation and discipline demonstrated by the amateur radio community during this emergency.