02 Oct 2023 | 07:09 AM UTC
Indonesia: Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs in southeastern Banda Sea at around 15:28 Oct. 2
Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs in Banda Sea, near Maluku, Indonesia, at around 15:28 Oct. 2. No immediate reports of damage.
Event
A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurred in the southeastern Banda Sea at around 15:28 Oct. 2. The epicenter was about 340 km (210 miles) west-southwest of Tual, Maluku province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 90 km (56 miles), and light shaking was probably felt across parts of southern Maluku Province. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are possible 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.
