Indonesia: Magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs north of Biak Island, Papua Province, at around 16:12 Nov. 21

A magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurred north of Biak Island, Papua Province, at around 16:12 Nov. 21. The epicenter was approximately 70 km (43 miles) north-northwest of Insrom on Biak Island. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 17 km (11 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of West Papua and Papua provinces, as well as Biak and Japen islands. 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.