Indonesia: Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs in the Indian Ocean, near North Sumatra Province, at around 09:18 Oct. 1

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in the Indian Ocean at around 09:18 Oct. 1. The epicenter was about 57 km (35 miles) southwest of Padangsidempuan, North Sumatra Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 101 km (63 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in North Sumatra, northern West Sumatra, far southern Aceh, and northwestern Riau provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; some minor damage is possible in areas of Simeulue Island close to the epicenter. 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.