Indonesia: A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs in the Molucca Sea Jan. 2

A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurred in the Molucca Sea at around 14:32 Jan. 2. The epicenter was about 108 km (67 miles) southeast of Modisi. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 65 km (40 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in North Sulawesi and far southwestern North Maluku provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; 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.