05 Aug 2018 | 03:21 PM UTC
Indonesia: Magnitude-7 earthquake strikes Lombok August 5 /update 1
Magnitude-7 earthquake strikes Lombok and Bali on August 5; details still emerging
Event
A magnitude-7 earthquake struck off the northern coast of Lombok at 19:46 (local time) on Sunday, August 5. The earthquake was felt on the nearby Island of Bali, where minor damage was reported at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). According to reports, at least three people were killed in the earthquake, although the death toll is likely to rise in the coming hours. At 20:46, Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency lifted a tsunami warning issued following the quake. Aftershocks are possible in the area in the coming hours and days. Transportation disruptions are anticipated in the affected area as recovery efforts continue.
Context
Indonesia lies within the active seismic zone known as "the Pacific Ring of Fire." On July 29, a 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck southwest of Lelongken, resulting in at least 14 deaths.
Advice
Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to monitor the situation, be prepared for further aftershocks, and heed all instructions issued by local authorities.
During an earthquake, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows and exterior walls, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from any tall structures, such as buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.