09 Jan 2024 | 05:42 AM UTC
Indonesia: Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs off Nias Island at 11:45 Jan. 9
Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs off western North Sumatra Province, Indonesia, at 11:45 Jan. 9. No initial reports of damage.
A magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurred off the western coast of Nias Island, North Sumatra Province, at around 11:45 Jan. 9. The epicenter was about 145 km (90 miles) west-southwest of Teluk Dalam. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 17 km (11 miles), and light shaking was probably felt on parts of Nias and Hibala 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. Light 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.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
