Indonesia: Deaths and collapsed buildings reported following earthquake Dec. 15 /update 1

Event

A 6.5-magnitude earthquake that struck the southern coast of West Java province on Friday, December 15, has reportedly caused buildings to collapse throughout the region, leaving an unknown number of people dead. The earthquake struck close to Cipatujah (West Java province) around 23:48 (local time), according to the US Geological Survey, some 101 km (63 mi) from Bandung, a city of over 2 million inhabitants. Indonesian authorities issued a tsunami warning late on Friday for parts of the Java coastline.

Buildings reportedly collapsed in the city of Tasikmalaya (West Java province), among several other districts in West Java. Strong tremors were felt in Jakarta and other cities and towns on Java, according to the Indonesian National Disaster Mitigation Agency. Heavy traffic was also reported on roads out of coastal areas. Additional traffic disruptions and casualties are expected to be reported in the coming hours.

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. Avoid coastal regions on Java.

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.