Powerful earthquake strikes Molucca ⁠Sea near Indonesia

Powerful Earthquake Strikes Molucca Sea Near Indonesia

A 7.4-magnitude earthquake rattled eastern Indonesia, prompting concerns about potential tsunamis. However, the initial alert has since been canceled. The tremor occurred in the Northern Molucca Sea, approximately 127 kilometers west of Ternate, Indonesia, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The seismic event reached a depth of roughly 35 kilometers, with aftershocks recorded up to 5.0 on the Richter scale.

Tsunami Warnings Lifted

Following the quake, Indonesia’s meteorology agency, BMKG, noted minor tsunami waves of 30 centimeters in North Maluku and 20 centimeters in Bitung, northeastern Sulawesi. Despite the warnings, no significant threats were confirmed. Indonesian broadcaster Metro TV reported one fatality in the Manado region, attributed to collapsing debris, while footage showed structural damage in the area.

“Hazardous tsunami waves” could affect regions within 1,000 kilometers of the epicenter, USGS warned, but the threat has since diminished.

Indonesia, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, remains prone to frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its location at the intersection of multiple tectonic plates. The event underscores the country’s vulnerability to such natural phenomena, though officials have reassured the public that the immediate danger has passed.