31 Dec 2023 | 07:08 PM UTC
Indonesia: Damage and injuries reported in Sumedang Regency, West Java Province, after magnitude-4.8 earthquake occurs in region at 20:34 Dec. 31
Magnitude-4.8 earthquake occurs in West Java Province, Indonesia, 20:34 Dec. 31; consequent damage, injuries reported in Sumedang Regency.
Officials have reported that dozens of structures, including houses, schools, and hospital facilities, have sustained damage in Sumedang Regency, West Java Province, following a magnitude-4.8 earthquake that occurred in the region at around 20:34 Dec. 31. Additionally, authorities reported the earthquake injured an unspecified number of people, and that they had temporarily evacuated some individuals from buildings impacted by the temblor.
The earthquake's epicenter was about 16 km (10 miles) northwest of Sumedang Utara. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 11 km (7 miles), and light-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of West Java Province. It will likely take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone as they check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
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.
