Indonesia: A magnitude-5.9 offshore earthquake occurs in the Molucca Sea at around 19:48 Aug. 4

Event

A magnitude-5.9 earthquake occurred in the Molucca Sea at around 19:48 Aug. 4. The epicenter was about 191 km (119 miles) south-southeast of Manado. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 54 km (34 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout much of Gorontalo Province and parts of eastern and northeastern Central Sulawesi and southwestern and western North Maluku provinces. 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-to-moderate 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.