7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Indonesia’s Ternate causing evacuations and structural damage; Tsunami Warning Later Lifted
A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Ternate in Indonesia on Thursday, causing panic among residents, damaging buildings, and triggering a tsunami warning that was later lifted.
According to the United States Geological Survey, the earthquake was first recorded at 7.8 magnitude, but later revised to 7.4 magnitude after further analysis. The quake struck at a depth of around 35 kilometres (22 miles), which was deeper than the earlier estimate of 10 kilometres (6 miles).
The epicentre was located about 120 kilometres (75 miles) from Ternate in Indonesia’s North Maluku province. The earthquake occurred in the Northern Molucca Sea, an area known for frequent earthquakes.
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Strong Tremors Cause Panic Among Residents
The earthquake hit early in the morning and caused strong shaking across eastern Indonesia. Residents said the tremors were strong and lasted several seconds, forcing many people to run outside their homes and buildings in fear.
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People in Ternate and nearby areas in North Sulawesi felt the quake clearly. Many residents woke up suddenly and rushed to open spaces for safety.
Some areas reported:
- Temporary power cuts
- Communication disruptions
- People gathering outside buildings
- Evacuations from homes, schools, and offices
Authorities advised people to remain calm and stay away from damaged structures.
Tsunami Warning Issued After the Quake
After the earthquake, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami warning. Officials said dangerous tsunami waves were possible within 1,000 kilometres of the epicentre.
Coastal areas in:
- Indonesia
- Philippines
- Malaysia
They were placed on alert while authorities monitored sea-level changes.
Later, small tsunami waves were recorded in some areas. The largest wave measured about 0.75 metres in North Minahasa, North Sulawesi, while smaller waves were observed in nearby coastal regions.
However, officials confirmed that the waves were not strong enough to cause major damage. After monitoring the situation, authorities lifted the tsunami warning about two hours after the earthquake.
1 Dead, Damage Reported in Several Areas
Authorities confirmed that 1 person died following the earthquake. Reports said a 70-year-old woman died in Minahasa district in North Sulawesi during the incident. Another person was reported injured.
Moderate damage was reported in several areas, including:
- Damaged houses
- Cracked buildings
- A damaged church
- Minor damage to infrastructure
Emergency teams started inspections in Ternate, Bitung, and nearby areas to assess damage and ensure safety.
Officials also warned residents to stay away from damaged buildings because of the risk of collapse.
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Dozens of Aftershocks Recorded
After the main earthquake, authorities recorded dozens of aftershocks. Reports indicated:
- Around 50 aftershocks detected
- Largest aftershock measured 5.8 magnitude
- More aftershocks expected
- Officials advised residents, especially those living near coastal and hilly areas, to remain alert.
- Emergency teams remained on standby while authorities continued monitoring the situation.
Indonesia Prone to Earthquakes
Indonesia frequently experiences earthquakes because it lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world. This area has major tectonic plate boundaries, which often cause earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Indonesia has experienced several major disasters in the past, including:
- 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami that killed more than 230,000 people
- 2018 Sulawesi earthquake and tsunami that killed over 4,300 people
- 2022 West Java earthquake that killed more than 600 people
Because of its location, strong earthquakes like the one near Ternate are always a risk.
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Authorities Ask Residents to Stay Alert
Indonesia’s disaster management authorities advised residents to:
- Stay away from coastal areas for some time
- Avoid damaged buildings
- Stay alert for aftershocks
- Follow official safety instructions
- Emergency teams continue to assess damage and help affected residents.
Current Situation
- Magnitude: 7.4
- Location: Northern Molucca Sea near Ternate
- Depth: 35 kilometres
- Tsunami warning: Issued and later lifted
- Casualties: 1 dead, at least 1 injured
- Damage: Moderate damage reported
Although the tsunami warning has been lifted, authorities continue to monitor the situation. The earthquake once again highlights Indonesia’s vulnerability to natural disasters because of its location in one of the world’s most active earthquake zones.
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