28 Dec 2022 | 04:51 AM UTC
Indonesia: Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs near Maluku Province at around 12:49 Dec. 28
Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs near Maluku Province, Indonesia, at about 12:49 Dec. 28. No initial reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurred in the Ceram Sea, near Maluku Province, Indonesia, at around 12:49 Dec. 28. The epicenter was about 360 km (224 miles) southeast of Ambon. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt across northeastern Maluku and southwestern West Papua provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; 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.
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.
