Indonesia: A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs on the northeast coast of Papua Province Feb. 8

Event

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred on the northeast coast of Papua Province, Indonesia, at around 20:35 Feb. 8. The epicenter was about 10 km (6 miles) west-southwest of Jayapura. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 26 km (16 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of eastern Papua and northeastern Highland Papua provinces in Indonesia and northern and central Sandaun Province in Papua New Guinea. 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.

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.