Indonesia: Aftershocks continue near North Maluku July 8 /update 2

Event

Aftershocks continued in the Molucca Sea, west of North Maluku province, as of 16:00 (local time) on Monday, July 8. At least nine aftershocks with magnitudes as large as 5.5 were recorded by the US Geological Survey (USGS) following a 6.9-magnitude earthquake at 23:08 on Sunday, July 7. Further aftershocks are likely in the coming hours and days. Associated disruptions, including power outages, transportation disruptions, and infrastructure damage, are possible; a tsunami warning cannot be ruled out.

Context

A 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck at 23:08 on Sunday, July 7, approximately 133 km (82 mi) west of Ternate (North Maluku province). A tsunami early warning was briefly issued following the quake for the west coast of North Maluku and east coast of North Sulawesi provinces. No significant damage or casualties were immediately reported.

Advice

Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor the situation, prepare for aftershocks, anticipate localized infrastructure damage and transportation disruptions, and adhere to instructions and warnings 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), move away from windows, and not attempt to leave a building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.

In the event of a tsunami warning, seek higher ground immediately.