Indonesia: Magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurs east-northeast of Manado at around 20:03 Sept. 22

Event

A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in the Molucca Sea east-northeast of Manado, Indonesia, at 22:03 Sept. 22. The epicenter was about 143 km (89 miles) northwest of Ternate. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 26 km (16 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout eastern North Sulawesi and western North Maluku provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties due to the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely in Manado and Ternate. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

Advice

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.