11 Dec 2022 | 03:21 AM UTC
Indonesia: Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs near Halmahera at around 11:28 Dec. 11
Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs near Halmahera, Indonesia, around 11:28 Dec. 11; no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
Event
A magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurred in the Halmahera Sea off North Maluku Province at around 11:28 Dec. 11. The epicenter was about 25 km (16 miles) southeast of Tobelo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 13 km (8 miles), and strong shaking was probably felt in parts of North Maluku Province. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are possible 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.
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.
