26 Oct 2023 | 06:29 AM UTC
Indonesia: Magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs in the Banda Sea south-southeast of Ambon, Maluku Province, at around 14:44 Oct. 26
Magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs south-southeast of Ambon, Indonesia, at 14:44 Oct. 26. No initial reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.5 earthquake occurred in the Banda Sea near Damar Island in Maluku Province at around 14:44 Oct. 26. The epicenter was about 397 km (247 miles) south-southeast of Ambon. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 165 km (103 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of southern Maluku Province. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; 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. 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.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
