13 Apr 2024 | 07:32 AM UTC
Indonesia: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs in Molucca Sea, west-northwest of Ternate, North Maluku Province, at around 13:26 April 13
Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs west-northwest of Ternate, Indonesia,13:26 April 13. No initial reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurred in the Molucca Sea at around 13:26 April 13. The epicenter was about 177 km (110 miles) west-northwest of Ternate, North Maluku Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 39 km (24 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of North Maluku and North Sulawesi provinces. 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.