Indonesia, Timor-Leste: Magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs in the Banda Sea north of Wetar Island, Maluku Province, at around 20:56 WITA Aug. 17

Event

A magnitude-5.5 earthquake occurred in the Banda Sea north of Wetar Island, Maluku Province, at around 20:56 WITA Aug. 17. The epicenter was about 171 km (106 miles) north of Metinaro, Timore-Leste. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 487 km (303 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of eastern East Nusa Tenggara and southwestern Maluku provinces in Indonesia and much of Timor-Leste. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties resulting from the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. 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.