Indonesia: Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs in the Molucca Sea at around 12:31 Sept. 5

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the Molucca Sea at around 12:31 Sept. 5. The epicenter was about 71 km (44 miles) south-southeast of Modisi, North Sulawesi Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 64 km (40 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of North Sulawesi, eastern Gorontalo, far southeastern Central Sulawesi, and far southwestern North Maluku 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.