Indonesia: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in Molucca Sea near eastern Central Sulawesi Province March 28

Event

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in the Molucca Sea, near far eastern Central Sulawesi Province at around 12:19 WITA March 28. The epicenter was about 106 km (66 miles) northeast of Luwuk. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 71 km (44 miles), and light shaking was likely felt throughout eastern Central Sulawesi, North Sulawesi, and Gorontalo provinces. 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. 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

Consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.