A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck eastern Indonesia on Thursday morning, with its epicentre in the Molucca Sea, triggering a tsunami warning for several coastal regions, though no major damage has been reported so far.
According to reports, the earthquake occurred at 6:48 am local time at a depth of approximately 35 kilometres beneath the समुद्र. The epicentre was located near the small island of Ternate. Tremors were felt across a wide area, raising concern in nearby coastal regions.
Following the earthquake, a tsunami threat was identified. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii issued alerts for coastal areas in Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia, stating that hazardous waves could occur within a radius of approximately 1,000 kilometres from the epicentre.
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) also issued an alert and said the situation is being continuously monitored. Authorities urged residents to avoid rumours and rely only on official information.
Within 30 minutes of the earthquake, unusual sea level activity was recorded at multiple monitoring stations. Waves of approximately 20 centimetres were recorded in Bitung, North Sulawesi, while waves reached about 30 centimetres in West Halmahera.
Although these waves were not highly destructive, they indicated ongoing ocean disturbance. Experts stated that smaller waves could also reach Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Papua New Guinea. No significant threat was reported for Hawaii, Guam or other distant regions.
As of now, there have been no official reports of major damage, casualties or injuries caused by the earthquake. Indonesia’s disaster management agencies and rescue teams are continuing to assess the situation.
In several areas, residents moved out of their homes and gathered in open spaces following the tremors. Authorities advised people to remain in safe locations and stay alert.
Strong tremors were felt in the coastal city of Bitung in North Sulawesi. A local resident reported that people rushed out of their homes immediately after feeling the shaking, stating that the intensity of the tremors caused confusion for a brief period.
While conditions later stabilised, the absence of reports of major damage has brought some relief, though concern remains among residents.
Officials have urged people in coastal areas to remain vigilant and prepared for any developments. Residents have been advised to avoid approaching the shoreline and to move to safer locations if further warnings are issued. Authorities also cautioned against misinformation on social media and emphasised reliance on official updates.
