Indonesia: Magnitude-6.1 offshore earthquake occurs in Banda Sea April 22

Event

A magnitude-6.1 offshore earthquake occurred in the Banda Sea around 17:23 April 22. The epicenter was about 320 km (70 miles) east of Katobu, South East Sulawesi Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 44 km (27 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout the Banda Sea, far eastern parts of South East Sulawesi Province and far western parts of Maluku Province. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days; one magnitude-5.5 aftershock has occurred. 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.

Advice

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.