12 Oct 2022 | 02:01 PM UTC
Banda Sea: Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs in the Banda Sea southwest of Damar Island at around 22:14 Oct. 12
Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs southwest of Damar Island, Indonesia, at around 22:14 WIT Oct. 12. No immediate reports of damage.
Event
A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurred in the Banda Sea southwest of Damar Island, Maluku Province, at around 22:14 WIT Oct. 12. The epicenter was about 183 km (114 miles) northeast of Lospalos, Timor Leste. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 160 km (99 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of southern Maluku Province, Indonesia, and eastern Timor Leste. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of 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.
