A powerful magnitude-7.4 earthquake struck the Molucca Sea region north-east of Indonesia early today, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The quake, which occurred at a depth of 35 kilometres, had its epicentre about 127 kilometres west-north-west of Ternate. Several aftershocks, including tremors up to magnitude 5, were also recorded.
Indonesia’s meteorology agency reported small tsunami waves, measuring 0.3 metres in West Halmahera and 0.2 metres in Bitung. Authorities warned that further waves could impact coastal areas.
The US tsunami warning system indicated that tsunami activity was possible in neighbouring countries, including the Philippines and Malaysia, although officials later said there was no immediate destructive threat to those regions.
Local reports confirmed at least one fatality in the Manado area due to falling debris, while residents fled their homes in panic as tremors were felt across affected areas. Some buildings sustained damage, and power outages were reported.
Authorities in several Indonesian regions, including Ternate and Tidore, have urged residents to prepare for possible evacuations.
Indonesia lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active zone prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity.
Officials continue to monitor the situation as a precaution, with warnings that minor sea-level changes may still occur across parts of the region.
Source: Reuters / Agencies
