On Thursday morning, eastern Indonesia experienced a significant offshore earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale, with its epicentre located beneath the Molucca Sea at a depth of approximately 35 kilometres, as reported by the United States Geological Survey. The quake resulted in one fatality and caused damage to several structures, with small tsunamis briefly observed along nearby coastlines.
The Indonesian meteorology agency recorded tsunami waves of around 30 centimetres in West Halmahera, while the coastal city of Bitung experienced smaller waves of approximately 20 centimetres. Additionally, minor fluctuations of about five centimetres were noted in the southern Philippines, but officials confirmed there was no widespread tsunami threat.
Tremors from the earthquake were felt in various locations, including the coastal city of Bitung and Ternate in North Maluku province, leading many residents to rush outdoors in response to the shaking, which lasted for about 20 seconds. Initial damage assessments indicate light to moderate impacts, with reports of structural damage in Ternate, including a church on Batang Dua Island and at least two homes in the south of the city.
In the aftermath, Indonesia’s search and rescue agency reported that a 70-year-old woman lost her life in North Sulawesi’s Minahasa district due to injuries sustained during the quake, with another individual suffering injuries as well. Efforts are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the damage across affected areas.
Authorities have advised caution as conditions stabilise, with disaster management spokesperson Abdul Muhari urging coastal residents to stay away from the shoreline until an official all-clear is issued. Several aftershocks were recorded shortly after the initial quake; however, these were also confirmed to pose no tsunami risk.
Being situated along a network of active fault lines within the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia is frequently impacted by earthquakes, affecting its population of over 280 million people.
Reported with information from the Associated Press.