An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 hit Indonesia’s Northern Molucca Sea on Thursday, resulting in one fatality, structural damage, and tsunami waves, as confirmed by authorities and witnesses.
The Indonesian meteorology agency reported tsunami waves in five locations, the tallest being 0.75 meters in North Minahasa in North Sulawesi, with around 50 aftershocks observed, the strongest measuring 5.8 in magnitude.
The BMKG chief revealed that their models suggested potential tsunami waves ranging from 0.5 to 3 meters in height.
Initially, US tsunami warning authorities expressed concerns about possible hazardous tsunamis along the coasts of Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia within 1,000 km of the epicenter, but later retracted the warning threat.
In the Manado area, an individual died due to falling debris when a section of a building used by the local sports authority collapsed, as confirmed by deputy chief of North Sulawesi police Awi Setiyono in a briefing to the media.
Indonesia sits on the “Pacific Ring of Fire,” a highly active seismic region where different tectonic plates intersect, leading to numerous earthquakes and volcanic activities in the country’s 130+ active volcanoes.
[CONTEXT: Indonesia is prone to earthquakes and tsunamis due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.] [FACT CHECK: The earthquake led to one casualty and caused structural damage in Indonesia, with tsunami warnings initially raised and later lifted.]
To ensure safety, Indonesia’s national disaster agency urged vigilance and prudent behavior in response to potential aftershocks, advising the public to remain calm and follow guidance until the situation is verified as safe.
[CONTEXT: Indonesia is known for frequent seismic activities, and the disaster agency’s caution emphasizes the need for preparedness and awareness.] [FACT CHECK: Despite the earthquake’s proximity to populated areas, the USGS predicts limited casualties and economic harm.]
Amid the aftermath, footage captured damaged buildings, and eyewitnesses reported residents fleeing in panic. Updates from the Philippines’ seismology agency and Malaysia’s meteorological department ruled out immediate tsunami threats, but continued monitoring for developments.
Various agencies warned of potential tsunami risks for other regions like Guam, Japan, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, and Taiwan, with Japan anticipating minimal impact and urging precautions in the Pacific Ocean.
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