07 Mar 2023 | 09:16 PM UTC
Indonesia: Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs in Molucca Sea at around 04:31 WITA March 8
Magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurs near central Indonesia at around 04:31 WITA March 8. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in the Molucca Sea near central Indonesia at around 04:31 WITA March 8. The epicenter was approximately 176 km (109 miles) south of Tomohon, Indonesia. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 55 km (34 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt in parts of North Sulawesi and eastern Gorontalo 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. 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 where shaking occurred.
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.
