24 May 2023 | 04:58 PM UTC
Banda Sea: A magnitude-6.2 offshore earthquake occurs in the Banda Sea at around 00:49 TLT May 25
A magnitude-6.2 offshore earthquake occurs northeast of Timor-Leste at around 00:49 TLT May 25. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-6.2 earthquake occurred in the Banda Sea northeast of Timor-Leste at around 00:49 TLT May 25. The epicenter was approximately 327 km (203 miles) east-northeast of Lospalos, Timor-Leste. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 167 km (104 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt in eastern Timor-Leste and throughout Maluku Province, Indonesia. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. 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
Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.