A strong magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Indonesia on Monday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The seismic event occurred at a depth of approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) beneath the seabed, with its epicenter located about 177 kilometers west of Tual, a city in the Maluku province.
Despite the earthquake’s significant magnitude, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed that there was no threat of a tsunami following the tremor. “Based on all available data, there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake,” the center said in its bulletin.
Eastern Indonesia is part of the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region notorious for its frequent and intense seismic activity due to tectonic plate boundaries. Earthquakes are common in the area, though not all result in destructive outcomes or tsunamis.
So far, there have been no immediate reports of injuries or major damage from local authorities. However, officials are continuing to assess the situation and monitor for possible aftershocks. Residents in nearby areas may have felt the tremor, especially given the depth and magnitude of the quake.
Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has advised the public to remain calm and follow official safety instructions. The agency also reminded citizens in coastal and earthquake-prone areas to stay informed through official communication channels.
The country has experienced deadly earthquakes in the past, including a devastating quake and tsunami in Sulawesi in 2018 that killed over 4,000 people.
While Monday’s earthquake did not result in a tsunami or widespread destruction, it serves as a reminder of Indonesia’s vulnerability to natural disasters and the importance of preparedness and resilient infrastructure in seismically active regions.
