26 May 2023 | 10:43 PM UTC
Indonesia: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in Banda Sea at around 06:34 WIT May 27
Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in Banda Sea near Maluku Province, Indonesia, at 06:34 WIT May 27. No immediate reports of damage, injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the Banda Sea near Indonesia's Maluku Province at around 06:34 WIT May 27. The epicenter was about 177 km (110 miles) west-northwest of Tual, Indonesia. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 68 km (42 miles), and light shaking may have been felt in parts of Maluku Province. 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 where shaking occurred.
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.
