Indonesia: 6.5-magnitude earthquake strikes Java coast Dec. 15

Event

A 6.5-magnitude earthquake shook the coast of Java on Friday, December 15. According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake struck close to Cipatujah (West Java province) around 23:48 (local time), some 134 km (83 mi) from Bandung, a city of over 2.5 million people. Officials have not issued a tsunami warning as of Friday night. Details regarding potential casualties and material damages are still emerging.

Context

Indonesia lies within the active seismic zone known as "the Pacific Ring of Fire." In December 2016, a powerful and shallow earthquake hit Western Aceh province killing 97 people, with over 500 others injured.

Advice

Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to monitor the situation, to be prepared for aftershocks, and to heed any potential instructions issued by local authorities.

In the event of aftershocks, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.